Former Kaduna State Governor, has appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja as proceedings continue in the criminal case instituted against him by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The case centres on allegations bordering on national security and cyber-related communication offences under provisions of the Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act.
Court filings indicate that the charges against the former governor stem from statements he allegedly made during a February 13, 2026 appearance on national television.
During the interview, El-Rufai was reported to have stated that he and unnamed associates had knowledge of, or involvement in, the interception of communications involving the National Security Adviser. Prosecutors argue that these remarks formed the basis of the criminal charges now before the court.
The matter is also linked to broader allegations of unlawful interception of telephone communications and the alleged failure to report those involved, contrary to provisions of the Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act and the Nigerian Communications Act.
El-Rufai has consistently denied all allegations levelled against him.
The case is separate from other corruption-related allegations reportedly being handled by anti-graft agencies in different jurisdictions, including the (ICPC).
Further hearings are expected as the court continues proceedings in the matter.
Ubong Usoro for Nigeria Magazine
