Amanze Chinonye
Fresh legal controversy has emerged following the arraignment of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over allegations of unlawful interception of the communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Prime Business Africa reports.
The Federal Government, in a charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026 and filed before the Federal High Court in Abuja, accused El-Rufai of admitting during a February 13, 2026 appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time programme that he and unnamed associates unlawfully intercepted Ribadu’s phone communications.
The three-count charge was brought under Section 12(1) and Section 27(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, as well as Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelCount One alleges that El-Rufai “admitted” during the television interview that he and his associates intercepted the NSA’s phone communications. Count Two accuses him of stating during the programme that he knew and related with an individual who unlawfully intercepted the NSA’s phone without reporting the matter to relevant security agencies. Count Three further alleges that he and others still at large used technical equipment to compromise national security by intercepting the NSA’s communications.
However, the charges have drawn legal scrutiny from rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong, who questioned both the substance and procedural basis of the prosecution.
READ ALSO : El-Rufai Accuses Ribadu of Procuring Poison Amid Political Tensions
El-Rufai Faces Criminal Charges for Alleged Interception of NSA Ribadu’s Phone Calls
Effiong argued that the charge sheet’s reference to the Department of State Services (DSS) raises a legal inconsistency, noting that the National Security Agencies Act establishes the State Security Service (SSS), not the DSS, and does not expressly confer prosecutorial powers on the agency. The agency commonly known as DSS is widely regarded as the operational name of the SSS, though the distinction has occasionally surfaced in legal debates.
He also questioned whether statements made during a media interview could qualify as an extrajudicial confession under Nigerian law, arguing that for a statement to be confessional and admissible, it must be made under caution and in compliance with constitutional safeguards. According to him, El-Rufai did not admit to personally wiretapping the NSA but said someone else allegedly carried out the act and informed him.
Effiong further cited the constitutional right against self-incrimination, maintaining that no court can compel a defendant to give evidence against himself. While stating that he is not a supporter of the former governor, the lawyer described the charge as “problematic in law,” adding that the courts would ultimately determine its validity.
As of press time, neither El-Rufai nor his legal team had publicly responded to the charge. Proceedings are expected to commence at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
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