SERAP Raises Alarm Over El-Rufai Phone-Tapping Claims

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has expressed alarm over allegations made by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai regarding the interception of phone conversations related to national security. SERAP's Deputy Director, Oluwadar, highlighted the potential threats to civil liberties posed by the current surveillance regulations, which lack sufficient legislative scrutiny.

During a Monday interview, Oluwadar argued that the existing framework for government interception is overly broad and could lead to abuses of power by security agencies. He emphasized the necessity for a robust legislative process that includes public hearings to ensure a balance between national security and civil liberties.

While acknowledging the need for some form of interception framework, Oluwadar advocated for alignment with international best practices to enhance accountability without undermining democratic freedoms.