Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is facing a possible two-year jail term if convicted on fresh cybercrime charges, as investigations intensify over alleged financial misconduct during his tenure.
The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed a three-count charge against him at the Federal High Court, Abuja, over the alleged unlawful interception of communications involving the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
The charge (FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026), dated February 16, 2026, follows comments El-Rufai made during a February 13 appearance on ARISE TV’s Prime Time, where he allegedly admitted knowledge of intercepted communications. Prosecutors said the offences are punishable under Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, which prescribes up to two years’ imprisonment or a ₦5 million fine, or both. He is also charged under Section 27(b) of the same Act and Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
In a related development, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) detained El-Rufai after hours of interrogation in Abuja over alleged corruption during his administration from 2015 to 2023.
The anti-graft agency is probing claims arising from a Kaduna State House of Assembly report adopted in June 2024, which recommended investigation into alleged mismanagement of up to ₦432 billion in loans and state funds. Investigators say he is expected to account for over ₦21 billion as part of broader allegations, including diversion of funds, money laundering, and debt accumulation linked to projects such as the Kaduna light rail.
Protests and counter-protests greeted his appearance at the EFCC office, with supporters demanding due process while other groups called for prosecution. A civil society group, Members of the Mega National Movement for Good Governance (MNMGG), urged transparency and adherence to constitutional provisions on anti-corruption.
EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, speaking on behalf of Chairman Ola Olukoyede, assured that due process would be followed.
Meanwhile, the DSS has reportedly reopened investigations into the 2019 disappearance of government critic Abubakar Idris (Dadiyata). A security source alleged El-Rufai is being investigated in connection with the case, an allegation he has denied.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga accused El-Rufai of portraying himself as a victim of political persecution, while the former governor—now a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress—maintains that the probes are politically motivated.
As of filing, El-Rufai remained in EFCC custody, with court proceedings expected to determine the next stage of the investigations.
