DSS Arraigns El-Rufai Over Alleged Interception of NSA Ribadu’s Phone Calls

The Department of State Services (DSS) has brought former Kaduna State governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations linked to illegal surveillance.

He was arraigned for his alleged role in intercepting the phone communications of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

According to the DSS, El-Rufai deliberately and unlawfully tampered with the communication lines of the NSA, which are classified as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) under the Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure Order, 2024 (Statutory Instrument No. 21 of 2024). The agency also claimed he acknowledged the act during an appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time programme in Abuja on February 13.

The prosecution argued that the alleged conduct contravenes Paragraph 7(b) and (c) of the CNII Order and is punishable under Section 5(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.

El-Rufai, however, pleaded not guilty when the charges were read, prompting prosecuting counsel, Oluwole Aladedoye (SAN), to request three days to present the case.

Earlier, Aladedoye informed the court that the former governor was being tried under an amended five-count charge.

Responding, defence counsel Oluwole Iyamu (SAN) told the court that his client had previously been in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and urged the court to consider a bail application dated February 17.

The prosecution also asked the court to allow witnesses to testify under protective measures, including concealing their identities and using pseudonyms, citing concerns about possible threats from the defendant’s supporters.

However, the defence opposed the request, arguing that such measures would infringe on El-Rufai’s constitutional right to know and challenge his accusers. Counsel further maintained that there was no evidence suggesting the former governor had a following capable of intimidating witnesses or disrupting the trial.

After hearing both sides, Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the case to May 18, 19, and 20 for further proceedings.