The Federal Government has filed a three-count charge against former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, alleging that he unlawfully intercepted the phone communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
The charges were lodged before the Federal High Court in Abuja through the Department of State Services (DSS).
The FG claimed that El-Rufai, who also served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, committed the offence alongside unidentified accomplices currently at large.
According to the charge, El-Rufai admitted to his involvement during an appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time program on February 3.
Count two alleges that El-Rufai was aware of the unlawful interception of the NSA’s communications but failed to report it to security authorities.
The third count contends that by using technical equipment to intercept Ribadu’s calls, the defendants endangered public safety, national security, and instilled “reasonable apprehension” among Nigerians, in violation of sections 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act 2024 and 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003.
The case adds to ongoing tensions between the Federal Government and opposition figures critical of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
