The Federal Government is set to arraign former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, before the Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations bordering on the unlawful interception of the phone communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
According to court filings dated February 16, 2026, El-Rufai is facing a three-count charge related to alleged breaches of Nigeria’s cyber and communications laws. The charges stem from statements he reportedly made during a televised appearance on February 13, in which he allegedly admitted to involvement in intercepting the communications of the National Security Adviser.
In the first count, the former governor is accused of unlawfully intercepting electronic communications, an offence said to be contrary to Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024. The prosecution contends that the alleged act constitutes a violation of laws designed to safeguard digital communications and protect individuals from unauthorized surveillance.
The second count alleges that El-Rufai knowingly associated with individuals said to have been involved in the unlawful interception and failed to report the matter to appropriate security agencies. Prosecutors argue that such omission contravenes Section 27(b) of the same Act, which imposes a duty on individuals to disclose knowledge of cyber-related offences.
The third charge accuses him of deploying technical equipment or systems in a manner that compromised public safety and national security by intercepting the communications of a high-ranking government official. This count is brought under Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, which criminalizes unauthorized interference with telecommunications infrastructure and communications.
The charges were filed by legal representatives of the Department of State Services, acting on behalf of the Federal Government. The prosecution maintains that the case underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing laws that protect national security and the integrity of digital communications.
Legal observers note that the case could test the scope and application of Nigeria’s updated cybercrime legislation, particularly in relation to public officials and politically exposed persons. It also raises broader questions about the balance between national security considerations and individual rights within the framework of existing communications laws.
The Federal High Court in Abuja is expected to commence proceedings in the coming days, with the arraignment marking the formal beginning of the trial process. At arraignment, the charges will be read to the defendant, who will be required to enter a plea.
As of the time of filing this report, El-Rufai has not publicly responded to the charges. His legal team is expected to outline his defence once proceedings begin.
The development adds a new dimension to Nigeria’s evolving legal landscape on cybersecurity, electronic surveillance, and the protection of sensitive communications involving public office holders.
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