Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has been officially charged for allegedly intercepting the phone communications of the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, in what prosecutors say threatens public safety and national security.

Court documents reveal that the alleged offence occurred in Abuja earlier this year and was admitted by El-Rufai during a February 13 interview on Arise TV’s Prime Time Programme. The charges are filed under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, and Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

Prosecutors argue that the alleged actions created fear and apprehension among Nigerians, while compromising national security. The case names other individuals still at large in connection with the alleged cybercrime.

The prosecution, led by M.E. Ernest, Esq., of the Department of State Services, Abuja, has called on El-Rufai to respond to the charges in court. No date has yet been set for his appearance.

This case marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s efforts to enforce cybersecurity laws and holds potential political ramifications given El-Rufai’s high-profile public profile.