The Presidency has demanded a comprehensive investigation into claims by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai regarding the alleged wire-tapping of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu’s phone line. The call underscores official concerns over national security protocols and potential illegal surveillance.
El-Rufai made the allegations during a recent television interview, stating that he and others listened to Ribadu’s telephone conversations after an unidentified individual tapped the NSA’s line. He defended the interception’s context, acknowledging its technical illegality but alleging routine government overreach. “The government does it all the time. They listen to our calls without a court order,” El-Rufai claimed. “But someone tapped his phone and told us that he gave the order,” he added, suggesting Ribadu authorized surveillance on others.
Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga reacted sharply to the interview on Friday, questioning the implications of El-Rufai’s public admission. “El-Rufai has confessed to wire-tapping Nigeria’s NSA on TV. Does it mean that he and his collaborators have wire-tapping facilities?” Onanuga queried. The spokesperson emphasized that the matter cannot be overlooked, calling for accountability regardless of the individual’s stature. “This should be thoroughly investigated and punishment meted out. El-Rufai is not too big to face the wrath of the law,” the statement concluded.
El-Rufai, a influential figure in Nigerian politics who served as governor for two terms and previously as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has not provided evidence for his claims. The NSA’s office, responsible for coordinating Nigeria’s national security strategy, has not issued a public response. Legal experts note that Nigeria’s laws generally prohibit interception of communications without judicial authorization, typically under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act.
The Presidency’s decisive response signals the seriousness with which the administration views breaches of national security communications. The alleged incident, if proven, would represent a severe compromise of the highest security advisory office and potentially involve unauthorized surveillance networks. It also raises questions about the alleged routine illegal monitoring El-Rufai described.
Analysts suggest the investigation will likely focus on two fronts: verifying the technical feasibility and occurrence of the tapped call, and identifying any individuals or groups with the capacity to execute such an operation. The probe may involve security agencies including the Department of State Services and the National Intelligence Agency.
The controversy unfolds against a backdrop of heightened political tensions and ongoing debates about surveillance powers and civil liberties in Nigeria. The outcome of the investigation could set a significant precedent for how allegations of illegal surveillance by political actors are addressed. The Presidency has indicated that due process will be followed, reinforcing a stated commitment to upholding the rule of law concerning national security matters.
