Court Takes Fresh Action on El-Rufai Case, Sets Arraignment Date
The Federal High Court in Abuja has taken a significant step in the legal proceedings against former Kaduna state governor, Nasir El-Rufai, by fixing a date for his arraignment. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the trial court announced that the case will be heard on Wednesday, February 25, after it was assigned to her by the chief judge, Justice John Tsoho.
DSS Files Three-Count Criminal Charge
On Monday, February 16, the Department of State Service (DSS) filed a three-count criminal charge against El-Rufai, marking a formal escalation in the allegations against him. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in the wiretapping of the telephone line of Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA). The suit, identified as FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026, accuses the former governor of cybercrime and breach of national security, setting the stage for a high-profile legal battle.
El-Rufai's Allegations and Public Reactions
In a recent interview, El-Rufai claimed that the NSA ordered his arrest following an unsuccessful attempt to detain him at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Thursday, February 12. He further alleged that the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) utilized the DSS to execute this action. When questioned about his knowledge of the NSA's involvement, 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."
The news of the arraignment has sparked widespread reactions from Nigerians, highlighting the intersection of law and politics in this case. Comments from social media users include:
- Blackmann CEO criticized El-Rufai, saying, "The marriage between law and politics is so smooth that you can't differentiate between them. Obviously, the charges are political, but you can't deny he committed an infraction of the law. El-Rufai messed himself up."
- Tobe expressed hope for El-Rufai's acquittal, noting, "I don’t think they have a case here because the burden of proof is on the prosecution. They must prove the allegation beyond a reasonable doubt under the Evidence Act and constitutional fair-hearing principles, or else it's hearsay."
- Nze Ndi Anambra challenged the NSA to testify in court, stating, "I want to see Ribadu come to court and testify that his phone was tapped. Nigerians and the international community want to check something."
- Diana-Abasi commented, "I don't want to see his family roaming around Aso Villa to beg. Let him enter trial like a big boy, he claimed to be."
This case continues to draw attention as it unfolds, with many watching closely to see how the legal and political dynamics will play out in the coming weeks.
