The Federal Government has filed three criminal charges against former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai over allegations that he unlawfully intercepted the phone communications of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu.

The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026, was filed on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the Federal High Court, Abuja, with the Federal Republic of Nigeria as complainant and El-Rufai as defendant.

What the Charges Say

According to court documents, the charges stem from El-Rufai’s appearance on Arise TV’s “Prime Time” programme on February 13, during which he publicly mentioned that he and others had accessed the NSA’s phone conversations.

Count One alleges that El-Rufai’s admission on live television amounts to a violation of Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, which criminalises unlawful interception of electronic communications.

Count Two claims that he knew about, and associated with, individuals allegedly involved in the interception but failed to report the act to the relevant security agencies, an offence punishable under Section 27(b) of the same Act.

Count Three alleges that El-Rufai and others still at large used technical systems to intercept the NSA’s communications in a manner that compromised public safety and national security, contrary to Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

Security and National Impact

Prosecutors argue that the alleged interception of the NSA’s calls could have serious implications for public safety and national security, saying such actions “instil reasonable apprehension” among citizens.

The Department of State Services (DSS), which filed the charges, also said El-Rufai’s comments during the television interview were central to the case, as they indicated knowledge of the interception.

Arraignment Date Not Yet Set

As of the time of publication, the Federal High Court has not yet fixed a date for El-Rufai’s arraignment.

Political Reaction

El-Rufai’s remarks have drawn strong response from authorities. After his interview, the Presidency called for investigations and said his comments pointed to a matter of grave concern for national security, stressing that unauthorized phone interception is a serious offence.

Background

Nasir El-Rufai is a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and served as Kaduna State Governor. In recent months, he has been a vocal critic of the incumbent administration, making his public statements subjects of intense media coverage and political debate.