El-Rufai Charged with Cybercrime Over NSA Phone Tapping

The Federal Government has filed three counts of cybercrime charges against former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, alleging unlawful interception of phone communications belonging to National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. The charges were lodged in the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The Department of State Services (DSS) accuses El-Rufai of conspiring with individuals to carry out these alleged offenses. Court documents indicate that El-Rufai admitted to his involvement during an appearance on Arise Television's prime time program on February 3.

The prosecution claims that his actions contravene Section 12(1) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act 2024. The second count alleges that El-Rufai was aware of the unlawful interception of Ribadu's communications and failed to report the matter to relevant security agencies.

The third count further accuses him of using advanced technical equipment to intercept Ribadu's calls, allegedly endangering public safety and national security, which contravenes Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003. El-Rufai has not publicly responded to the charges, and the case is expected to test Nigeria's cybercrime laws, particularly involving high-profile political figures.