Department of State Services has filed a three-count criminal charge against former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over the alleged unlawful interception of the phone communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
The suit, filed before the Federal High Court of Nigeria in Abuja and dated February 16, 2026, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing political and security controversy involving the former governor.
El-Rufai according to court documents, the DSS is relying on statements allegedly made by him during an interview on Arise TV’s Prime Time programme on February 13, 2026, in which he reportedly admitted that he and unnamed associates intercepted the NSA’s phone communications.
In the first count, El-Rufai is accused of unlawfully intercepting the communications of the National Security Adviser, an offence said to be punishable under Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.
The second count alleges that he knowingly associated with individuals who carried out the interception without reporting the matter to relevant authorities, contrary to Section 27(b) of the same Act.
The third count accuses him and other persons said to be at large of deploying technical equipment in a manner that compromised public safety and national security, thereby causing apprehension among Nigerians, in violation of Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003.
Meanwhile, the Federal High Court has not fixed a date for arraignment or hearing of the case.
The development is expected to generate significant political reactions, given El-Rufai’s stature in national politics and Ribadu’s position as the country’s top security adviser. Observers say the outcome of the case could have far-reaching implications for national security governance and political accountability. More details are expected as the matter proceeds in court.
