The Federal High Court of Nigeria, Abuja Judicial Division, has filed criminal charges against former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, over the alleged unlawful interception of the phone communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
In the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CS/199/2026, the Federal Republic of Nigeria is listed as the complainant, while El-Rufai, 65, is named as the defendant.
According to court documents dated February 16, 2026, the prosecution alleged that El-Rufai, during an appearance on Prime Time, a programme aired by Arise TV on February 13, 2026, admitted that he and others unlawfully intercepted the phone communications of Ribadu.
In Count One, the prosecution accused the former governor of committing an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.
Count Two alleged that El-Rufai acknowledged knowing individuals who intercepted the NSA’s communications but failed to report them to relevant security agencies, thereby violating Section 27 of the same Act.
Count Three further alleged that he used technical equipment or systems that compromised public safety and national security, instilling fear and apprehension among Nigerians. The charge states that the alleged act is punishable under Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
The prosecution team includes counsel representing the Department of State Services, headquartered in Maitama, Abuja.
As of the time of filing this report, no date has been announced for the defendant’s arraignment. The case is expected to generate significant public and political interest given the high-profile personalities involved and the national security implications of the allegations.
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