DSS Closes Case Against El-Rufai, Ex-Governor Moves to Quash Wiretapping Charges

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is set to challenge the wiretapping charges against him after the Department of State Services (DSS) formally closed its case before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

At Tuesday’s proceedings, counsel to the DSS, Oluwole Aladedoye, informed the court that the prosecution had concluded its presentation of evidence and would not be calling additional witnesses.

Following the closure of the prosecution’s case, El-Rufai’s lead counsel, Paul Erokoro (SAN), notified the court of the defence’s intention to file a no-case submission, arguing that the prosecution had failed to establish a prima facie case warranting the former governor’s defence.

The defence subsequently requested two weeks to prepare and file the application, while the prosecution sought a similar period to respond.

The prosecution also urged the court to review some of the bail conditions earlier imposed on El-Rufai, describing them as difficult to satisfy.

Specifically, concerns were raised over requirements that sureties be Level 17 civil servants with landed property in Abuja’s Maitama or Asokoro districts, alongside verification and attestation letters from the Kaduna State Traditional Council.

However, the defence opposed any variation of the bail terms, maintaining that the conditions remained appropriate under the circumstances.
In her ruling, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik declined the request to alter the bail conditions, holding that qualified civil servants capable of meeting the requirements exist.

The judge thereafter adjourned the matter until September 22, 2026, for the hearing of the no-case submission and further proceedings.