SERAP Urges Tinubu to Repeal Controversial Surveillance Law

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has formally requested President Bola Tinubu to withdraw the 2019 regulations that govern the interception of communications, asserting that these laws contravene the Nigerian Constitution and the country's international human rights obligations. In a letter dated February 22, 2026, signed by Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP called for a new legislative process to ensure that any system for intercepting phone calls and digital messages complies with constitutional standards, including necessary court oversight.

The organization highlighted concerns raised by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai regarding the interception of his phone conversations, which were allegedly monitored for national security purposes. SERAP argued that the existing regulations create a broad surveillance system that allows authorities to monitor communications without adequate judicial control, potentially infringing on citizens' rights to privacy and free expression.

They warned that the misuse of such powers could discourage political activity and undermine free elections, particularly as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.