The Federal Government has expanded the criminal case against former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, introducing fresh charges bordering on interference with critical national infrastructure and unauthorised access to classified information.
El-Rufai pleaded not guilty to all counts on Thursday during his arraignment before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik at the Federal High Court in Abuja, after the court approved an amended five-count charge filed by the prosecution.
Fresh charges and national security dimension
The amended charge, filed on 13 April 2026, replaces an earlier three-count charge and significantly broadens the scope of allegations against the former governor.
Prosecuting counsel for the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwole Aladedoye, told the court that the new charges introduce a stronger national security dimension.
In one of the counts, El-Rufai is accused of unlawfully interfering with the communication of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, described as part of Nigeria’s critical national information infrastructure.
The prosecution said the alleged offence violates provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.
Another new count alleges that El-Rufai accessed classified information without authorisation, including details relating to Ribadu’s arrest and detention order issued in February 2026.
Retained allegations and legal dispute
The amended charge also retains earlier allegations, including claims that El-Rufai unlawfully intercepted communications and used technical systems capable of compromising public safety and national security.
According to the charge, the alleged actions could instil fear among Nigerians and undermine national security frameworks.
Defence counsel, Oluwole Iyamu, confirmed receipt of the amended charge and did not oppose its substitution, prompting the court to strike out the earlier charge and proceed with the fresh arraignment.
Courtroom arguments and trial schedule
Following his plea, the prosecution requested an accelerated hearing with consecutive trial dates, while also applying to protect the identities of two witnesses by using pseudonyms, citing security concerns.
The defence opposed the request, arguing it infringes on the defendant’s constitutional right to know his accusers.
Further disputes arose over access to proof of evidence and a defence motion seeking to quash the amended charge, which the prosecution urged the court to dismiss.
Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the matter to 18, 19, and 20 May 2026 for hearing.
Bail application and continued detention
Separately, the Kaduna State High Court denied El-Rufai’s bail application, citing the gravity of the allegations and concerns over possible interference with ongoing investigations.
In a ruling delivered by Justice D.H. Khobo, the court held that the seriousness of the charges outweighed arguments for release.
“The interest of justice is best served by ensuring the applicant remains available for an accelerated trial,” the judge ruled.
The court also dismissed health-related arguments raised by the defence, noting the absence of sufficient medical evidence.
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) had opposed the bail request, arguing that the former governor could interfere with witnesses and ongoing investigations.
The court ordered that El-Rufai remain in ICPC custody pending trial, with hearing dates fixed for 1 June to 4 June 2026, for day-to-day proceedings.
The case continues to draw national attention, given its implications for cybersecurity laws, political accountability, and the handling of high-profile national security cases in Nigeria.
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