Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai has alleged that National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu personally ordered his arrest and is behind the failed detention attempt at Abuja Airport on Thursday.
Speaking on Arise Television, el-Rufai claimed Ribadu’s phone conversation was intercepted, and he heard the NSA directing security operatives to detain him. He also alleged a conspiracy involving Kaduna Governor Uba Sani and the ICPC chairman to “abduct” him.
The NSA has not responded. Presidential aide Temitope Ajayi questioned el-Rufai’s admission of tapping the NSA’s phone, calling it illegal. El-Rufai maintained he will appear before the EFCC on Monday, denying wrongdoing during his eight-year tenure. He also dismissed US sanctions against Rabiu Kwankwaso as politically motivated.
Key Points:
The allegations of phone tapping and conspiracy deepen political tensions and distrust in security institutions.
It raises serious legal and ethical questions about surveillance and the rule of law.
El-Rufai gains anti-establishment credentials, while Ribadu and security agencies face intensified scrutiny.
This signals the weaponisation of both security agencies and surveillance for political purposes.
The timing, ahead of 2027, reflects escalating pre-election political warfare.
The allegations, if substantiated, would represent a severe breach of democratic norms, but the lack of evidence leaves the matter in the realm of political accusation.
Sources: Premium Times, Arise Television, Temitope Ajayi/Facebook