DSS to Arraign El-Rufai Over Cybercrime Charges

The Department of State Services (DSS) is preparing to arraign former governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai on February 13, 2026, in Abuja, facing three counts of cybercrime violations under the Cybercrime Prohibition Act 2024 and the Nigerian Communications Act 2003. The charges stem from allegations that El-Rufai unlawfully intercepted phone communications of national security advisor Nuhu Ribadu during an interview on Aris TV.

The DSS claims that El-Rufai's actions compromised public safety and national security, leading to fears of insecurity among Nigerians. Security measures have been intensified at the court premises to manage the large number of supporters expected to gather, with personnel deployed to ensure order and safety.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik is presiding over the case, which has drawn significant attention due to El-Rufai's political background and the serious nature of the allegations against him.