El-Rufai Arraigned in Abuja Over Alleged Interception of NSA Ribadu’s Phone Communications
By Passman Akpos
The Federal High Court of Nigeria sitting in Abuja has received a three-count charge filed by the Federal Republic of Nigeria against former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over alleged unlawful interception of the phone communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
According to court documents dated February 16, 2026, and marked Charge No: AA3/CA/99/2026, El-Rufai, 65, is accused of admitting during a live appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time Programme on February 13, 2026, that he and unnamed associates unlawfully intercepted the private communications of the NSA.
In Count One, the Federal Government alleges that the defendant’s statement during the television interview amounts to an offence under Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, which criminalizes unlawful interception of electronic communications.
Count Two accuses El-Rufai of stating during the same interview that he was aware of, and had a relationship with, an individual involved in the alleged unlawful interception but failed to report the matter to relevant security agencies. Prosecutors say this contravenes Section 27(b) of the Cybercrimes Amendment Act, 2024.
In Count Three, the prosecution further alleges that El-Rufai and others still at large used technical equipment or systems in a manner that compromised public safety and national security. The charge claims the alleged act created reasonable apprehension of insecurity among Nigerians, contrary to Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
The charge sheet indicates that the case is being prosecuted by counsel from the Department of State Services (DSS), with the defendant to be served through his legal representatives.
As of press time, there has been no official response from El-Rufai or his legal team regarding the allegations. Legal observers say the case, if it proceeds to full trial, could test the scope and enforcement of Nigeria’s amended cybercrime laws, particularly in matters involving national security and public admissions made during media appearances.
Further proceedings are expected in the coming days at the Abuja Judicial Division of the Federal High Court.
