El-Rufai Pleads Not Guilty to Phone-Tapping Charges

Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, appeared before Justice Joyc Abdulmalik at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where he pleaded not guilty to charges of unlawfully intercepting communications, which breach national security. The Department of State Services (DSS) had initially arraigned him on five amended charges, replacing three earlier counts filed on April 13.

The charges include allegations of intercepting communications without authorization and compromising public safety. During the proceedings, the defense counsel, Oluwol Iyamu SAN, confirmed that the state did not oppose the substitution of charges.

The prosecution requested three consecutive trial dates, while the defense raised concerns about access to legal counsel and the potential for corrupt practices. The court adjourned the case to May 18, 19, and 20 for further hearings, while also considering a bail application filed on February 17.

The prosecution sought to protect the identities of two witnesses, which the defense opposed, arguing it violated constitutional rights.