The charges, filed by the DSS on behalf of the Federal Government, accuse El-Rufai of unlawfully intercepting and tapping the telephone communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, in breach of provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Amendment) Act, 2024, as well as the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
According to the prosecution, the alleged offences relate in part to statements made by the former governor during a February 13, 2026 interview on ARISE TV, where he reportedly discussed intercepting the NSA’s communications. The DSS further accused him of engaging in illegal surveillance activities that constitute a national security breach.
When the charges were read in court, El-Rufai pleaded not guilty to all counts. Following his plea, the prosecution urged the court to grant an accelerated hearing, stating its readiness to establish its case within a short timeframe.
Counsel to the defendant subsequently raised an application for bail, which presiding judge, Joyce Abdulmalik, said would be considered at the next adjourned date. The court fixed May 18, 2026, for further proceedings, including the hearing of the bail application.
The case adds to the legal challenges facing the former governor, who is also standing trial in a separate matter instituted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over allegations of an ₦11 billion fraud during his tenure in Kaduna State.
