The Federal Government of Nigeria has filed a three count cybercrime charge against former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, accusing him of unlawfully intercepting the phone communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

The charge, filed before the Federal High Court Abuja through the Department of State Services, alleges that El-Rufai carried out the interception with the help of accomplices who are currently at large.

According to court documents, the Federal Government claimed that the former governor openly admitted his involvement during a live appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time programme on February 13.

Prosecutors stated that El-Rufai’s actions violated provisions of Nigeria’s cybercrime laws, describing the alleged interception as a serious threat to public safety and national security.

In a second count, the government accused him of failing to report the unlawful interception despite being aware that the NSA’s communications had been compromised.

The third count further alleged that the use of technical devices to spy on the NSA’s calls created fear among Nigerians and undermined national security.

El-Rufai, who previously served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, is also described in the charge as a prominent figure among opposition politicians critical of the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

The case is expected to generate intense political and legal debate when proceedings begin in Abuja.