Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past Governor of Kaduna State and a leading figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), is currently facing interrogation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). This development unfolds simultaneously with the Department of State Services (DSS) filing a separate three-count criminal charge against him at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The former governor arrived at the EFCC’s headquarters in Abuja around 11:00 a.m. on Monday, responding to an invitation from the anti-corruption agency. The questioning is centered on allegations of corrupt practices reportedly spanning his two-term tenure as governor from 2015 to 2023.
A large contingent of supporters accompanied El-Rufai to the commission’s facility along Airport Road in Jabi. Inside, a source within the EFCC confirmed his presence, stating, "He is currently with our investigators." The duration of the interrogation remains unconfirmed, though insiders suggest that arrangements might be in place for a potential court arraignment following the questioning.
This investigation follows a dramatic incident last Thursday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, where El-Rufai reportedly resisted arrest attempts by security operatives. In subsequent media interviews, he alleged that the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, was behind the botched operation.
Parallel Court Action by DSS
In a parallel move intensifying the legal pressure on the former governor, the DSS has filed criminal proceedings against him at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The charge, referenced as FCT/ABJ/CR/99/2026, stems from remarks El-Rufai made during a live appearance on Arise Television's Prime Time programme on February 13, 2026.
The DSS alleges that during the broadcast, the 65-year-old politician confessed to intercepting the private phone communications of NSA Nuhu Ribadu, an act he allegedly carried out alongside unnamed associates. The security agency contends this admission constitutes a direct violation of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act of 2024.
Court documents further accuse El-Rufai of withholding critical information from authorities. Despite claiming knowledge of the individuals responsible for the alleged interception, he is accused of failing to report them to security agencies, a breach of the same cybercrime legislation.
The third count levelled by the DSS involves the use of technical equipment to unlawfully intercept the NSA's communications. The Federal Government asserts that this action compromised national security, violated the terms of the Nigerian Communications Act of 2003, and created a reasonable sense of insecurity among the populace.
The charge was formally filed in court on Monday by M. E. Ernest on behalf of the DSS, marking a significant escalation in the legal battles facing the former governor.
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