Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has been arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations linked to the interception of telephone communications involving the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
He was brought before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on Thursday morning on a five count amended charge marked FHC ABJ 99 2026.
At the start of proceedings, the prosecution informed the court of an amendment, after which the judge struck out the earlier three count charges and proceeded with the new filing.
When the charges were read, El-Rufai pleaded not guilty to all counts.
Counsel to the Department of State Services applied for three consecutive trial dates, but the defence objected, saying it needed time to consult with the defendant, who has been in the custody of multiple security agencies.
The defence also asked the court to hear a bail application filed on February 17. Justice Abdulmalik initially declined to admit a further affidavit, noting it was not in the court record and warning against what she described as “Nollywood theatrics” over the presence of cameramen in court.
After a short stand down, the affidavit was located and proceedings continued. The DSS later told the court it was not opposing the bail application.
The prosecution also asked the court to shield the identities of two witnesses, arguing their safety could be at risk. The defence opposed the request, insisting that an accused person has a right to know his accusers.
The defence further asked for proof of evidence to prepare for trial and also moved to quash the charges, which the prosecution opposed, arguing it could not be entertained after a plea had been taken.
The court adjourned the matter while it considers the pending applications.
The allegations stem from claims that El Rufai accessed or benefited from intercepted communications involving Ribadu. In a previous television interview on Arise Television, he said, “He made the call because we listened to their calls. The government thinks they are the only ones that listen to calls but we also have our ways. He made the call and gave the order.”
He also said, “Someone tapped his phone. The government listens to our calls all the time without a court order. Someone tapped his phone and told us that he gave the order.”
The Department of State Services is prosecuting the case, while the Federal High Court Abuja is expected to rule on bail and other applications before full trial begins.
