Federal Government Files Three-Count Charge Against Nasir El-Rufai Over Alleged NSA Phone Interception
The Nigerian Government has moved to prosecute former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, over allegations that he illegally intercepted the phone conversations of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
According to documents filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja on February 16, 2026, El-Rufai is facing a three-count charge stemming from comments he allegedly made during a February 13 appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time Programme.
“Count One: Admitting, during a February 13 appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time Programme, that he and his associates unlawfully intercepted the communications of the NSA, contrary to Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Amendment Act, 2024.
“Count Two: Knowing and associating with individuals involved in the unlawful interception without reporting them to security agencies, in violation of Section 27(b) of the same Act.
“Count Three: Using technical equipment or systems to compromise public safety and national security by intercepting the NSA’s communications, an offence under Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003.”
The case was instituted by counsel representing the Department of State Services, namely M.E. Ernest, O.M. Owan, U.M. Bulla, C.S. Eze and E.G. Orubor.
The court is expected to fix a date soon for his arraignment as proceedings commence.
