The Federal Republic of Nigeria has filed criminal charges against former Kaduna state Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over allegations of unlawfully intercepting the communications of the National Security Adviser.
According to court documents marked FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026, the Federal Government is listed as the complainant, while El-Rufai is named as the sole defendant in the case.
Case Filed at Federal High Court, Abuja
The matter has been instituted before the Federal high court Abuja Judicial Division.
Prosecutors allege that on February 13, 2026, during an appearance on Arise’s TV Prime Time programme in Abuja, El-Rufai admitted that he and certain unnamed individuals intercepted the phone communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuru Ribadu, without legal authorisation.
The alleged statement reportedly forms a key part of the prosecution’s case.
Three Criminal Counts Explained
The charges against the former governor are divided into three counts:
Alleged Violation of Cybercrimes Law
The first count claims that El-Rufai’s reported admission contravenes Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, which criminalises unlawful interception of electronic communications.
Failure to Report an Offence
Count two alleges that he knowingly associated with individuals involved in the alleged interception but failed to report the act, contrary to Section 27(b) of the same legislation.
Compromising National Security
The third count accuses him of using technical systems in 2026 to unlawfully access the NSA’s communications, allegedly breaching Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, and compromising national security in the process.
Arraignment Date Yet to Be Fixed
As of the time of filing this report, the Federal High Court has not announced a date for El-Rufai’s arraignment.
Legal analysts say the case could have significant political and security implications, given the high-profile personalities involved and the sensitive nature of the allegations.
Political and Legal Implications
The development adds another dramatic twist to Nigeria’s evolving political landscape. Observers note that cases involving alleged breaches of national security laws often attract intense public scrutiny and could test the boundaries of cybercrime and communications regulations in the country.
More details are expected as the court process unfolds.
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