FG Files Cybercrime Charges Against Nasir El-Rufai Over Alleged Interception of NSA Nuhu Ribadu’s Phone Calls

FG has filed cybercrime charges against Nasir El-Rufai over alleged interception of NSA Nuhu Ribadu’s phone calls.

NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Federal Government has filed a three-count charge against former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over the alleged unlawful interception of phone communications belonging to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

The charges were instituted before the Federal High Court in Abuja through the Department of State Services (DSS). According to court documents, the former governor allegedly committed the offence in collaboration with other individuals who are currently at large.

ALSO: El-Rufai Urges Opposition Unity to Unseat Tinubu in 2027 Amid Failed Airport Abduction Controversy

El-Rufai, who also served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, was accused of admitting to knowledge of the alleged interception during his appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time programme on February 3.

The Federal Government said the alleged offence contravenes Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act 2024.

In the second count, prosecutors alleged that El-Rufai was aware that the NSA’s communications had been unlawfully intercepted but failed to report the matter to relevant security agencies.

The government further claimed that the use of technical equipment to intercept the NSA’s calls endangered public safety and national security. The act, according to the charge, created “reasonable apprehension” among Nigerians, in violation of Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003.

The case adds to growing political tensions, as El-Rufai is regarded as a prominent member of an opposition coalition critical of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

As of the time of filing this report, no date has been announced for the arraignment.