On April 23, 2026, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai was arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja by the Department of State Services (DSS) on a revised five-count charge relating to alleged unlawful interception of communications and breaches of national security.
El-Rufai appeared before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik and pleaded not guilty to all charges.
At the resumed hearing, DSS counsel Oluwole Aladedoye (SAN) informed the court that a further amended five-count charge had been filed on April 13 and requested that it replace the earlier three-count charge.
One of the amended counts alleged that El-Rufai unlawfully intercepted the communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, an allegation he was said to have acknowledged during a televised interview in February 2026. Another count accused him of using technical means that allegedly compromised national security and caused public concern.
El-Rufai’s counsel, Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), confirmed receipt of the amended charge and did not oppose its substitution. The court subsequently struck out the earlier charge and read the new counts, to which El-Rufai again pleaded not guilty.
The defence raised concerns about scheduling multiple trial dates, citing potential limitations in accessing the defendant, who is in custody. They also referenced a pending bail application filed in February 2026, noting earlier filing inconsistencies that were later resolved.
The DSS indicated it did not oppose the bail application.
The prosecution also requested that the identities of two witnesses be protected, citing safety concerns, but the defence objected, arguing it would violate the defendant’s right to know his accusers. They further demanded full disclosure of evidence to aid trial preparation.
Additionally, the defence sought to quash the amended charges, while the prosecution urged the court to dismiss the application.
After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the case to May 18, 19, and 20, 2026, for hearing.
