The Department of State Services (DSS) is set to arraign former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai today at the Federal High Court in Abuja on three-count charges alleging cybercrimes and violation of the Nigerian Communications Act.
The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026, will be heard before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik. Tight security measures are in place at the court premises, with operatives controlling access amid a large turnout of El-Rufai's supporters and sympathizers.
The courtroom is reportedly filled, and El-Rufai is expected to appear for the proceedings.
The charges stem from statements El-Rufai made during a February 13, 2026, appearance as a guest on Arise TV's Prime Time programme in Abuja.
According to the DSS, he admitted that he and associates unlawfully intercepted phone communications of National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
The agency alleges this compromised national security, public safety, and created reasonable apprehension of insecurity among Nigerians.
The three counts include:Unlawful interception of communications, contrary to Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.
Knowing individuals who carried out such interception but failing to report them to relevant security agencies, punishable under Section 27(b) of the same Act.
Use of technical equipment or systems that breached public safety and national security by intercepting the NSA's communications, in violation of Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
The DSS filed the charge on Monday following El-Rufai's televised comments. El-Rufai has challenged the charges in court, filing a motion to quash them on grounds that they disclose no known offence, lack a prima facie case, and represent an abuse of process.
He is also seeking N2 billion in damages from the DSS for alleged harassment and misuse of the justice system.
This development follows El-Rufai's recent interactions with anti-graft agencies, including time in EFCC and ICPC custody related to other matters.
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