The Department of State Services (DSS) has formally brought charges against former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, before the Federal High Court in Abuja, accusing him of offenses tied to unlawful interception of communications and threats to national security.
Appearing before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on Thursday, El-Rufai entered a plea of not guilty to a newly amended five-count charge.
The updated charges replaced an earlier three-count filing after the prosecution, led by Oluwole Aladedoye, informed the court that revisions had been made on April 13.
The defence, represented by Oluwole Iyamu, acknowledged receipt of the amended charge and raised no objection to its substitution, prompting the court to strike out the previous counts.
The Allegations
Among the allegations, the prosecution claims that El-Rufai unlawfully intercepted communications belonging to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
Another count accuses him of deploying technical systems in a manner that endangered public safety, undermined national security, and created widespread fear among citizens.
During proceedings, the DSS requested that the identities of two witnesses be shielded for security reasons, proposing the use of pseudonyms in official records.
The defence pushed back, arguing that such a move would violate the defendant’s constitutional right to fully know and confront his accusers.
Trial Dates Wahala
Further disagreements arose over the scheduling of trial dates, with the defence opposing consecutive hearings on the grounds that El-Rufai’s detention under the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission could limit his access to legal counsel.
The defence also drew attention to a previously filed bail application, clarifying that a missing affidavit had now been recovered.
Notably, the DSS indicated it would not contest the bail request.
In addition, El-Rufai’s legal team filed a motion seeking to dismiss the amended charges entirely, which the prosecution urged the court to reject as baseless.
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The defence also requested access to the prosecution’s evidence to adequately prepare for trial, a demand that was met with opposition.
After considering arguments from both sides, Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the matter, setting May 18, 19, and 20 as dates for further hearings.