DSS Drags El-Rufai to Court Over Alleged Tapping of Ribadu’s Phone Lines
The Department of State Services (DSS) has instituted a legal action against former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, over alleged unlawful interception of communication lines belonging to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu.
According to court documents, the suit contains a three-count charge bordering on alleged cyber-related offences and violations of the Nigerian Communications Act. The charges reportedly stem from claims that phone lines linked to the NSA were unlawfully tapped.
The security agency is seeking legal redress under relevant provisions of Nigeria’s cybercrime and telecommunications laws, arguing that the alleged actions constitute a breach of national security protocols and established communication regulations.
EFCC Invitation
Meanwhile, El-Rufai has honoured an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to respond to separate allegations of corruption during his tenure as governor of Kaduna State.
Sources familiar with the development indicate that the former governor presented himself before the anti-graft agency to clarify issues surrounding financial management and contracts executed under his administration. However, details of the EFCC’s inquiry remain undisclosed as of the time of filing this report.
Political and Legal Implications
The twin developments — the DSS court action and the EFCC probe — mark a significant turn in the post-office trajectory of the former Federal Capital Territory minister. Legal analysts note that if the allegations proceed to full trial, the matter could test the application of cybercrime laws in high-level political disputes.
Neither El-Rufai nor his legal representatives have issued a formal statement regarding the DSS charges. Similarly, the EFCC has yet to provide an official update on the outcome of his appearance before the commission.
The cases are expected to generate political ripples, given El-Rufai’s prominence in national politics and his role in recent political realignments.