DSS to Arraign El-Rufai February 25 for Cybercrime, Security Breach

By Rachel Akper

The Department of State Services (DSS) has scheduled the arraignment of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai on February 25, 2026, over allegations of cybercrime and breach of national security.

The arraignment will take place before a Federal High Court in Abuja, under trial Justice Joyce Abdulmalik.

The charges, filed as FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026, allege that El-Rufai unlawfully intercepted telephone communications belonging to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, during a media interview, in violation of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.

El-Rufai is also accused of admitting knowledge of the unlawful interception by a third party without reporting it to authorities, and of using technical systems in a way that allegedly compromised public safety and national security, contrary to provisions of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.

The allegations reportedly stem from comments El-Rufai made during a February 13 interview on Arise TV, where he claimed he became aware of a plan to arrest him through intercepted communications.

This case adds to the legal scrutiny surrounding the former governor, who has recently faced separate investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over alleged corruption during his tenure.

The DSS arraignment on February 25 will mark a significant legal milestone, attracting nationwide attention due to the national security implications and the high-profile nature of the accused.