The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed criminal charges against former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over his alleged involvement in the unlawful interception of communications belonging to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
The three-count charge, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026, was filed on Monday before the Federal High Court, Abuja Division.
The Charges
According to court documents, the DSS accused El-Rufai of admitting during an appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time programme on February 13, 2026, that he and unnamed associates unlawfully intercepted the phone communications of the NSA.
The first count alleges that the former governor’s admission constitutes an offence under Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.
In the second count, the prosecution claimed El-Rufai acknowledged knowing and maintaining contact with an individual who carried out the alleged interception but failed to report the matter to relevant security agencies. This charge was brought under Section 27(b) of the same Act.
The third count alleges that El-Rufai and others still at large used technical equipment or systems to compromise public safety and national security by unlawfully intercepting the NSA’s communications. The charge was filed under Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
The DSS argued that the alleged actions created reasonable apprehension of insecurity among Nigerians and constituted a threat to national security.
The case is expected to test the interpretation and enforcement of Nigeria’s updated cybercrime laws, particularly as they relate to admissions made during media interviews.
As of the time of filing this report, no date has been publicly announced for El-Rufai’s arraignment.