JUST IN: FG files cybercrime charges against El-Rufai over alleged wiretapping of NSA Ribadu’s phone
The federal government has filed criminal charges against former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over alleged claims of unlawfully intercepting the phone communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
The charges, filed before the Federal High Court of Nigeria, Abuja Judicial Division, list the Federal Republic of Nigeria as the complainant and El-Rufai, 65, as the defendant.
According to the charge sheet jointly signed by counsel to the prosecution from the Department of State Services (DSS) — M.E. Ernest, O.M. Owan, U.M. Bulla, C.S. Eze and E.G. Orubor — the government alleged that El-Rufai admitted during an appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time programme in Abuja on February 13, 2026, that he and his associates unlawfully intercepted the phone communications of NSA Ribadu.
Charges
In Count One, the prosecution alleged that El-Rufai’s admission constitutes an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.
Count Two alleged that El-Rufai stated during the same interview that he knew and related with an individual who unlawfully intercepted the NSA’s communications but failed to report the person to relevant security agencies. The charge says this act is punishable under Section 27 of the same Act.
Count Three further accused the former governor of using technical equipment or systems to compromise public safety and national security, thereby instilling apprehension among Nigerians. The offence is said to be contrary to Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
The charge sheet indicated that the alleged offences took place within the jurisdiction of the court in Abuja and were dated February 16, 2026.
