Phone tapping charge has been filed against former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, as the Department of State Services arraigned him before a Federal High Court in Abuja. The case involves allegations of unlawful interception of communications linked to national security officials. The Phone tapping charge includes five counts under cybercrime and communications laws. He pleaded not guilty and applied for bail pending trial.
Nigeria has strengthened enforcement of cybercrime and communications laws in recent years. Authorities continue to monitor and regulate activities involving digital surveillance and data interception. These measures aim to protect national security systems and sensitive communications.
The case involving Nasir El-Rufai follows public remarks he made during a televised interview. In that appearance, he referenced knowledge of intercepted communications involving the National Security Adviser. The Cybercrimes Act and Nigerian Communications Act provide legal frameworks guiding such matters. These laws outline penalties for unlawful interception and misuse of communication systems.
The Phone tapping charge was filed by the DSS and presented before the Federal High Court in Abuja. The case is identified as FHC/ABJ/99/2026. According to the charge, El-Rufai allegedly intercepted phone communications belonging to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. The act was said to have been carried out alongside other individuals currently at large.
Prosecutors stated that he admitted during an appearance on Arise TV that he was aligned with individuals involved in the interception. The offence was said to contravene Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024. The prosecution also alleged that he failed to report those responsible for the interception. This aspect of the Phone tapping charge falls under Section 27(b) of the same Act.
Additional counts relate to alleged use of technical equipment in a way that could compromise national security. These claims reference Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003. El-Rufai pleaded not guilty to all five counts before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik. His counsel, Oluwole Iyamu, SAN, applied for bail following the arraignment.
The Phone tapping charge highlights increasing enforcement of laws regulating digital communication in Nigeria. It underscores the legal risks associated with unauthorised surveillance activities. For policymakers, the case reinforces the importance of maintaining strict oversight of communication systems. It also reflects growing reliance on cyber laws to address national security concerns.
Businesses and technology operators handling sensitive data may face closer scrutiny under existing regulations. Compliance with data protection and communication laws remains critical in the evolving digital landscape. For the public, the case draws attention to privacy rights and legal boundaries around surveillance. It also reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen accountability in matters involving national security.
