Tinubu's Top Aide Urges Investigation of El-Rufai Following Wire-Tapping Confession
Bayo Onanuga, the special adviser on information and strategy to President Bola Tinubu, has called for a thorough investigation into the immediate past governor of Kaduna state, Nasir El-Rufai. This demand follows El-Rufai's controversial admission of wire-tapping the phone of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, during a recent interview.
El-Rufai's Allegations and Wire-Tapping Admission
In an interview on Friday, February 13, El-Rufai alleged that NSA Nuhu Ribadu ordered his arrest upon his return to Nigeria at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Thursday, February 12. The former governor claimed that the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) utilized the Department of State Services (DSS) to execute this action. When questioned about how he knew Ribadu ordered the arrest, El-Rufai stated, "He made the call because we listened to their calls. The government thinks that they are the only ones who listen to calls. But we also have our ways." This statement has been interpreted as a direct confession to illegal wire-tapping.
Onanuga's Response and Call for Legal Action
Reacting to El-Rufai's claims, Bayo Onanuga emphasized that the admission of wire-tapping constitutes a serious legal and national security breach. He argued that such actions should be a primary concern for law enforcement agencies, potentially leading to criminal charges under Nigerian law. Onanuga highlighted that intercepting communications without authorization, especially targeting a high-ranking official like the NSA, could involve offences related to national security, terrorism, or attempted coups.
Public Reactions to the Controversy
The call for investigation has ignited strong reactions from Nigerians across social media and public discourse. Many citizens have expressed outrage and concern over the implications of El-Rufai's admission.
- Aina Dipo commented on the legal ramifications, noting that unauthorized interception of communications is a criminal offence under Nigerian law, with heightened severity when involving the NSA.
- Ayo Adebamowo condemned El-Rufai's actions, describing the admission as shocking and indicative of a high-risk security breach by a former public official.
- Casmir Ajems raised national security concerns, questioning how someone could tap the phone of the national security advisor without severe consequences.
- Abiola Olagoke accused the government of similar practices, suggesting that wire-tapping is not monopolized by any single entity and calling for broader accountability.
Background and Political Context
This incident occurs amidst ongoing political tensions, as El-Rufai recently urged opposition parties to unite against President Tinubu in the 2027 elections. The airport arrest attempt has reportedly intensified his resolve to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) administration. El-Rufai's legal team has criticized the arrest attempt as unlawful, citing a lack of proper procedure by security operatives. The controversy underscores deeper issues of surveillance, privacy, and governance in Nigeria's political landscape.
As the situation develops, stakeholders are closely monitoring potential investigations and legal actions. The admission of wire-tapping by a former governor has raised critical questions about security protocols, ethical conduct, and the rule of law in the country.
