FG files criminal charges against El-Rufai over interception of Ribadu’s phone

The Federal High Court of Nigeria sitting in Abuja has filed criminal charges against former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over allegations of unlawful interception of the phone communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

According to the charge sheet marked before the Abuja Judicial Division, the Federal Republic of Nigeria is listed as the complainant, while El-Rufai, 65, is named as the sole defendant.

In count one, prosecutors 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 NSA. The offence is said to be punishable under Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.

Count two accused him of acknowledging knowledge of another individual involved in the alleged interception but failing to report the person to security agencies, an offence also linked to provisions of the Cybercrimes Act.

In count three, the prosecution further alleged that El-Rufai and others still at large used technical equipment or systems that compromised public safety and national security by intercepting Ribadu’s communications. This charge was filed under Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003.

The charge sheet, dated February 16, 2026, indicated that counsel from the Department of State Services are leading the prosecution.

No hearing date was immediately stated on the document.