DSS to Arraign Ex-Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai on February 25 for Alleged Cybercrime and National Security Breach

The Department of State Services (DSS) has announced plans to arraign former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, on February 25, 2026, for alleged involvement in cybercrimes and a breach of national security.

According to charges outlined by the DSS, El-Rufai is accused of violating provisions of both the Cybercrimes Prohibition Act (2024) and the Nigerian Communications Act (2003). The charges stem from his statements made during an appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time Programme on February 13, 2026, in which he allegedly admitted to illegal activities related to the interception of communications.

The three primary charges against El-Rufai are as follows:

Count One: The former governor is accused of unlawfully intercepting the phone communications of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mr. Nuhu Ribadu, and discussing the act during his TV interview. This alleged breach is said to violate Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.

Count Two: El-Rufai is further accused of knowing and interacting with individuals who had unlawfully intercepted NSA Ribadu’s communications but failed to report these activities to the relevant authorities. This act allegedly contravenes Section 27(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.

Count Three: In a more serious charge, El-Rufai, along with unidentified individuals, is alleged to have used technical equipment in 2026 to unlawfully intercept NSA Ribadu’s phone communications, compromising national security and public safety. This alleged act is a violation of Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

The DSS has emphasized that these actions jeopardize national security and have caused significant public concern regarding safety and stability in the country.

El-Rufai, who served as Governor of Kaduna State for two terms, has yet to comment publicly on the allegations, but legal experts anticipate a high-profile trial. The case has already generated significant attention, with implications for both national security protocols and the role of public figures in the digital space.

Stay tuned as the story develops.