The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, before a Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations of intercepting the communications of National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
He pleaded not guilty to a five-count amended charge before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik.
Following his plea, the prosecution, led by Oluwole Aladeloye (SAN), requested an accelerated hearing, while the defence, led by Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), raised concerns about limited access to the defendant in custody.
The prosecution also sought to conceal the identities of two witnesses for security reasons, but the defence opposed the request, citing the defendant’s right to know his accusers.
Justice Abdulmalik ordered an accelerated hearing, adjourned the case to May 18–20 for rulings on pending applications, and remanded El-Rufai in DSS custody.
The charges include unlawful interception of communications, access to classified information, and actions alleged to have compromised national security.
