Abuja, Nigeria – February 16, 2026
The Federal Government has arraigned former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, before the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja over allegations bordering on unlawful interception of phone communications and related cyber offences.
StarNigerianNews.com can report exclusively that According to the charge sheet filed before the court, the Federal Republic of Nigeria accused El-Rufai of unlawfully intercepting the telephone communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. The alleged offence was said to have taken place in 2026 within the jurisdiction of the court.
Three-Count Charge
In Count One, the prosecution alleged that El-Rufai, during an appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time Programme on February 13, 2026, admitted to unlawfully intercepting the phone communications of the National Security Adviser. The charge is said to be contrary to Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.
Count Two accused the former governor of stating during the same television interview that he knew and related with an individual who unlawfully intercepted the NSA’s communications but failed to report the individual to relevant security agencies, an act deemed punishable under the law.
In Count Three, the prosecution further alleged that El-Rufai used technical equipment or systems that compromised public safety and national security, thereby instilling apprehension among Nigerians. The charge cites Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
Prosecution Details
The charge, dated February 16, 2026, was filed by counsel to the prosecution from the Department of State Services (DSS). The document indicates that the matter falls within the Abuja Judicial Division of the Federal High Court.
Court proceedings are expected to determine the next legal steps, including plea and possible bail considerations.
The development has sparked widespread public interest given El-Rufai’s prominence in national politics and the sensitive nature of the allegations involving the country’s top security office.
More details are expected as the case progresses.