Federal High Court Postpones El-Rufai's Arraignment to April 23 in Abuja
A federal high court located in Abuja has officially shifted the date for the arraignment of Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna state, to April 23, 2026. This decision comes after the court had initially scheduled the hearing for Wednesday, February 25, 2026. However, as the court session commenced on that day, El-Rufai was notably absent, prompting the rescheduling.
DSS Files Charges Over Alleged Unlawful Phone Interception
The Department of State Service (DSS) has filed a three-count charge against the former governor, alleging the unlawful interception of telephone conversations involving the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. This legal action stems from comments made by El-Rufai during a television interview, which sparked the investigation and subsequent charges. The case highlights ongoing tensions between political figures and security agencies in Nigeria.
The court's postponement allows for further preparation and ensures that all parties are present for the proceedings. Legal experts suggest that this delay could impact the timeline of the case, potentially leading to additional hearings or motions. The DSS's confession in filing the charges underscores the seriousness of the allegations, which involve national security concerns.
El-Rufai, a prominent political figure, has been at the center of various controversies, and this case adds to the legal challenges he faces. The outcome of this arraignment could have significant implications for his political future and the broader landscape of Nigerian politics. Observers are closely monitoring the developments, as the case involves high-profile individuals and sensitive security matters.
The federal high court's handling of this matter is expected to set a precedent for similar cases involving alleged breaches of security protocols. As the new date approaches, both the defense and prosecution teams are likely to intensify their efforts, with the public awaiting further updates on this unfolding legal drama.
