The Presidency has directed security agencies to investigate former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over comments suggesting that the phone line of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, was unlawfully intercepted.
The directive followed an interview granted by El-Rufai on Arise TV, where he claimed that he and others listened to telephone conversations involving the NSA after an unnamed individual allegedly tapped Ribadu’s phone.
In the interview, El-Rufai admitted that the act was illegal but argued that such practices were not unusual. According to him, government agencies frequently monitor citizens’ communications without court orders. He further alleged that the intercepted conversation revealed that Ribadu had given certain directives.
The remarks have triggered concern within the Presidency, which described the allegation as a serious national security matter. Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga questioned whether El-Rufai and his associates possess wire-tapping facilities capable of targeting senior security officials.
Onanuga said the confession, made on live television, could not be dismissed lightly. He maintained that the matter demands a thorough and transparent investigation to determine the facts and establish accountability where necessary. He added that no individual is above the law, regardless of status or previous office held.
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The development has heightened political tension in Abuja, with analysts noting that allegations of unlawful surveillance involving the office of the National Security Adviser carry far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s security architecture. Observers say the outcome of any probe could shape public confidence in both intelligence operations and political accountability.
As of press time, El-Rufai had not issued a fresh statement in response to the Presidency’s call for investigation. Security agencies are yet to publicly confirm whether a formal inquiry has commenced.
The unfolding controversy surrounding Nasir El-Rufai, Nuhu Ribadu and the alleged wire-tapping claim is expected to remain a dominant issue in Nigeria’s political discourse in the coming days.
