The Federal High Court in Abuja will arraign former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, on February 25, 2026, over allegations of cybercrime and breaches of national security, following charges brought by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Court documents indicate that the charges were filed at the Federal High Court, where Justice Joyce Abdulmalik is expected to preside over the matter.
The case was assigned following administrative approval by the Chief Judge of the court, Justice John Tsoho.
The security agency accuses El-Rufai of unlawfully intercepting telephone communications allegedly linked to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
Prosecutors contend that the alleged actions contravene provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act 2024 as well as the Nigerian Communications Act 2003.
The allegations stem from comments reportedly made during a recent media interview in which the former governor referenced knowledge of a purported plot against him.
The development comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the former governor by multiple federal agencies.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission had earlier questioned him over separate allegations relating to his time in office, although details of those proceedings remain distinct from the cybercrime case.
As of press time, El-Rufai’s legal team has yet to issue a formal response to the scheduled arraignment. The February 25 court appearance is expected to draw significant public and political attention, given the high-profile nature of the case and its potential implications for the enforcement of Nigeria’s cyber and national security laws.
