The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai before the Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations of illegally wiretapping the telephone lines of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
According to proceedings held before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, the charges stem from claims that El-Rufai unlawfully interfered with communications classified as Critical National Information Infrastructure under a 2024 statutory order. The DSS argued that such actions pose a serious threat to national security and warrant strict legal scrutiny.
The prosecution, led by Oluwole Aladedoye (SAN), told the court that El-Rufai had allegedly admitted to the act during an appearance on Prime Time aired on Arise TV on February 13. Despite this claim, the former governor pleaded not guilty to the five-count amended charge brought against him.
During the hearing, the DSS requested special protective measures for its witnesses. The prosecution asked the court to conceal the identities of those expected to testify, including shielding their faces and permitting the use of pseudonyms. According to the DSS, these steps were necessary to safeguard witnesses from potential harm, particularly from individuals sympathetic to the defendant.
However, El-Rufai’s legal team, led by Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), strongly opposed the request. The defence argued that such measures would infringe on the constitutional right of the accused to confront and identify his accusers. Counsel further maintained that there was no evidence suggesting that El-Rufai posed any threat or commanded a following capable of intimidating witnesses.
The former governor, who had previously been in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), also filed a bail application dated February 17, seeking release pending trial.
After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the case to May 18, 19, and 20 for continuation of proceedings. The case is expected to test legal boundaries surrounding national security, digital surveillance, and the rights of the accused in Nigeria’s judicial system.
Arise News
