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Author: Afilawos Magana Sur

  • Iran Warns It Can Sink US Warships as Nuclear Talks Conclude in Switzerland

    Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, investigative Journalist at Sele Media Africa.

    Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, has warned that the Islamic Republic possesses the capability to sink United States warships in the Persian Gulf, escalating rhetoric as diplomatic talks between Tehran and Washington concluded in Switzerland. Speaking amid renewed diplomatic engagements, Khamenei declared that Iran would respond decisively to any military aggression, asserting that the country’s armed forces have both the capacity and readiness to target US naval assets in the Gulf if provoked. The remarks come at a delicate moment in negotiations aimed at de-escalating tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme. Rising Rhetoric Amid Fragile Diplomacy the latest round of discussions, reportedly held in Switzerland, sought to revive diplomatic channels between Tehran and Washington after years of strained relations. While neither side has released comprehensive details of the talks, international observers suggest that discussions focused on nuclear compliance, sanctions relief, and regional security. Relations between the two countries deteriorated significantly after the United States withdrew from the 2015 nuclear agreement—formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)—under former President Donald Trump. Since then, intermittent efforts to restore the accord have faced repeated setbacks.Khamenei’s warning underscores the persistent mistrust between both nations, even as diplomatic efforts continue. Analysts say such statements often serve dual purposes: reinforcing domestic political messaging while strengthening Tehran’s bargaining position at the negotiating table. Strategic Importance of the Persian Gulf the Persian Gulf remains one of the world’s most strategically sensitive waterways, facilitating a significant share of global oil shipments. The United States maintains a robust naval presence in the region, primarily through its Fifth Fleet, to safeguard maritime routes and regional allies.Iran, for its part, has repeatedly showcased its missile capabilities and naval exercises, emphasizing asymmetric warfare strategies designed to counter larger conventional forces. Military experts note that Tehran has invested heavily in anti-ship missiles, fast attack craft, and drone technology capable of challenging naval operations in confined waters. International Reactions and Regional implications Washington has yet to issue a formal response to Khamenei’s latest remarks. However, US officials have consistently stated that American forces in the region remain prepared to defend their personnel and assets.Global powers monitoring the talks—including European Union stakeholders—have urged both sides to tone down rhetoric to preserve diplomatic momentum. Renewed escalation could jeopardize fragile progress toward restoring compliance with nuclear commitments and easing economic sanctions. For African economies closely tied to global energy markets, heightened instability in the Gulf carries significant implications. Fluctuations in oil prices triggered by geopolitical tensions often reverberate across import-dependent nations, affecting fuel costs, inflation rates, and fiscal planning.A Delicate Path Forward while rhetorical escalation is not uncommon in US-Iran relations, the convergence of sharp military warnings and ongoing diplomatic negotiations highlights the fragile balance currently defining bilateral engagement. Whether recent talks will translate into substantive breakthroughs remains uncertain. What is clear is that any miscalculation in the Gulf—one of the world’s most militarized maritime corridors—could have far-reaching geopolitical and economic consequences.Sources:Reuters, BBC News, Al Jazeera, the Associated Press.

  • Protesters Sustain Fourth Day of Electoral Reform Demonstrations Outside Nigeria’s National Assembly in Abuja

    Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, investigative Journalist at Sele Media Africa.

    For the fourth consecutive day, protesters have maintained their presence outside Nigeria’s National Assembly in Abuja, intensifying calls for comprehensive electoral reforms aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability, and public trust in the country’s democratic process. The demonstrators, comprising civil society organisations, youth advocacy groups, and concerned citizens, converged at the legislative complex in the Federal Capital Territory, demanding legislative action to address perceived gaps in Nigeria’s electoral framework. Their core demands include improved electoral transparency, enhanced real-time transmission of results, institutional independence for electoral bodies, and stricter enforcement of campaign finance regulations. The protests come amid ongoing national conversations about electoral integrity following recent elections. Critics argue that systemic weaknesses, including logistical challenges and legal ambiguities, undermine public confidence in outcomes. Protesters say meaningful reforms are critical ahead of future electoral cycles to safeguard democratic stability in Africa’s most populous nation.Security presence around the National Assembly has remained heightened but largely orderly, with law enforcement officials monitoring proceedings. Organisers have reiterated that the demonstrations are peaceful and rooted in constitutional rights to assembly and expression.Lawmakers have yet to issue a comprehensive response to the sustained protests, although some members of the National Assembly have previously acknowledged the need to review aspects of the Electoral Act to reflect technological advancements and evolving democratic standards. Observers note that electoral reform has historically been a contentious yet recurring issue in Nigeria’s political landscape. Nigeria’s electoral system is overseen by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which has faced scrutiny and praise in equal measure over its management of elections in recent years. While INEC has introduced technological innovations such as electronic voter accreditation and result viewing portals, critics argue that implementation gaps remain. Political analysts say the sustained demonstrations reflect broader civic engagement trends across Africa, where citizens increasingly demand institutional accountability and democratic consolidation. They caution, however, that reform processes require broad-based consensus among lawmakers, political parties, civil society, and electoral authorities. As the demonstrations continue into a fourth day, the spotlight remains on Nigeria’s legislative leadership and whether public pressure will translate into concrete policy shifts. Sources:Reuters; BBC News; Al Jazeera; Premium Times Nigeria; The Guardian Nigeria.

  • Russian Man Allegedly Infects Over 700 Women With HIV Across Africa, Sparks Cross-Border Health and Security Concerns

    Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, investigative Journalist at Sele Media Africa.
    A Russian national is at the centre of a growing international controversy following allegations that he deliberately infected more than 700 women with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) across multiple countries, including Kenya and Ghana, before returning to Russia and reportedly sharing images and videos of his activities online. The disturbing claims, which have circulated widely across African and international media platforms, allege that the suspect travelled to several African countries with the specific intent of engaging in unprotected sexual encounters in order to spread HIV. Reports further claim that he documented parts of his travels and interactions on social media after returning to his home country.
    Authorities in Kenya and Ghana have not publicly confirmed the total number of alleged victims, but law enforcement agencies in the affected countries are said to be reviewing the matter amid mounting public concern. Allegations and Public Reaction
    According to reports first amplified on social media and later referenced by regional media outlets, the suspect allegedly targeted women in nightlife districts and online dating spaces. Unverified claims suggest that he did not financially compensate some of the women he engaged with and that his alleged objective was to knowingly transmit the virus. While some viral posts have cited comparisons to historical criminal cases involving deliberate HIV transmission, public health experts caution against spreading unverified figures until official investigations are concluded. The allegations have sparked outrage across African social media communities, with calls for enhanced border screening protocols, stronger international law enforcement cooperation, and improved HIV awareness and testing programs.
    Legal and Public Health Implications
    Under the laws of many countries, intentional transmission of HIV can constitute a serious criminal offence, including charges related to grievous bodily harm or attempted homicide. Legal analysts note that if substantiated, such actions could trigger cross-border criminal investigations and potential extradition proceedings. Public health authorities emphasize that HIV transmission requires specific biological conditions and that prevention measures—including consistent condom use, regular testing, and access to antiretroviral therapy (ART)—remain effective tools in reducing risk.
    The World Health Organization has consistently advocated for strengthened HIV prevention strategies across sub-Saharan Africa, a region that continues to carry a disproportionate share of the global HIV burden. According to the UNAIDS, expanded access to testing and treatment remains critical to ending AIDS as a public health threat. Need for Verified Information
    At the time of publication, no official statement has been released by Russian authorities confirming the suspect’s identity or addressing the allegations. Independent verification of the claim that over 700 women were infected has not yet been established through official public health records. Media analysts caution against amplifying unverified figures without documentary evidence, noting that misinformation surrounding HIV can exacerbate stigma and undermine public health interventions.
    Sele Media Africa will continue to monitor developments and provide verified updates as investigations progress.
    Sources:
    BBC News; Al Jazeera; Reuters; The Nation (Kenya); Daily Graphic (Ghana); UNAIDS Reports; World Health Organization Publications.

  • Wike’s Alleged Intervention in Plateau PDP Sparks Political Uncertainty Amid Ongoing Power Realignments

    Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, investigative Journalist at Sele Media Africa.

    Fresh political tension is brewing within the Plateau State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following allegations that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, is influencing party structures in the North-Central state despite currently serving in an All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal administration. The controversy centers on the reported appointment of caretaker leadership for the PDP in Plateau State, even though the party already has an existing executive committee and recognized structure. The development has triggered debates among party stakeholders and political observers, raising broader questions about party autonomy, internal democracy, and shifting alliances ahead of future electoral cycles.Growing Concerns Over Party Control several PDP members in Plateau have expressed unease over what they describe as external interference in the state’s party affairs. Critics argue that imposing a caretaker committee where a functional executive exists risks deepening factional divides within the party.While no official statement has directly confirmed that Wike orchestrated the move, political insiders point to his increasing national influence within the PDP despite his ministerial role under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The situation has intensified speculation about whether Wike is consolidating strategic control across key PDP strongholds. Observers note that Wike remains one of the most influential figures within the PDP, even after the 2023 general elections, during which internal party disagreements became highly public. His political posture—serving in an APC-led government while retaining leverage within the PDP—continues to reshape Nigeria’s opposition dynamics. Legal ambiguities and political realignment the matter has gained further complexity following a recent court judgment reportedly affecting party structures in Plateau State. Although interpretations of the ruling vary, its outcome has left many stakeholders seeking clarity over the legitimate leadership of the state chapter. Legal analysts argue that internal party disputes often hinge on constitutional provisions and compliance with party guidelines. However, in highly competitive political environments, court decisions can also accelerate realignments or deepen factionalism. The situation underscores a broader national trend in which political actors operate across traditional party boundaries, particularly in periods of coalition-building and strategic alliances. APC–PDP Crosscurrents the controversy also highlights the unusual political dynamic of a prominent PDP figure holding office in an APC administration. Since his appointment as FCT Minister, Wike has maintained that his role is one of national service. Nonetheless, critics within the opposition question the optics and implications of his continued involvement in PDP affairs.Major Nigerian media outlets, including Punch Newspapers, Premium Times, Vanguard, and TheCable, have reported extensively on the evolving relationship between Wike and the PDP, particularly in the aftermath of the 2023 elections and subsequent party restructuring efforts. Political analysts say the unfolding events in Plateau could signal broader shifts within Nigeria’s opposition politics, especially as stakeholders reposition ahead of future electoral contests. What lies ahead for now, Plateau State’s political landscape remains fluid. Party loyalists are closely monitoring developments, while legal interpretations and internal negotiations may ultimately determine the direction of the PDP in the state. Whether the controversy results in consolidation or further fragmentation will depend on how party leaders navigate the delicate balance between influence, legality, and grassroots legitimacy. As events continue to unfold, the situation in Plateau serves as a reminder of Nigeria’s complex political architecture—where alliances are dynamic, and influence often transcends party lines.Sources:Punch Newspapers; Premium Times; Vanguard; TheCable.

  • Kaduna Insecurity: Two Killed as Gunmen Torch Kajuru LG Chairman’s Vehicle During Burial in Ugom

    Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, investigative Journalist at Sele Media Africa.

    Suspected armed bandits have killed two residents and set multiple vehicles ablaze, including the official vehicle of the Kajuru Local Government Chairman, during an attack on Ugom community in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The assault, which occurred during a burial ceremony, underscores the persistent insecurity confronting communities in Nigeria’s North-West region. Local sources said the attackers stormed the gathering, opened fire on mourners, and torched several vehicles before fleeing the scene. Among the vehicles destroyed was the official car belonging to the Kajuru Local Government Chairman. Community leaders confirmed that at least two people were killed in the attack, while several others reportedly sustained injuries. Security agencies have yet to issue a comprehensive statement detailing arrests or the motive behind the assault as of press time.Kajuru Local Government Area has long been one of the flashpoints in Kaduna State’s protracted security crisis, marked by banditry, kidnappings, and inter-communal violence. The latest incident adds to growing concerns over the safety of rural communities, particularly during public gatherings such as markets, religious events, and funerals.Authorities in Nigeria have intensified security operations across the North-West in recent years, deploying military and police units to curb armed groups commonly referred to as bandits. Despite these efforts, sporadic attacks continue to claim lives and disrupt livelihoods, with residents frequently calling for more proactive intelligence-led operations and sustained community engagement. National and regional media outlets, including Daily Trust, Premium Times, and Channels Television, have reported on the Ugom attack, highlighting its impact on local stability and the broader insecurity in Kaduna State.Security analysts warn that targeting social gatherings represents a troubling pattern aimed at spreading fear and undermining communal resilience. They stress the importance of coordinated federal and state responses, improved surveillance, and strengthened local security architecture to prevent further escalation. As investigations continue, residents of Kajuru are mourning the victims while demanding justice and enhanced protection from government authorities. Sources: Daily Trust; Premium Times; Channels Television.

  • US Treasury Sanctions Eight Nigerians Over Alleged Boko Haram, ISIL Financing and Cybercrime Networks

    Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, investigative Journalist at Sele Media Africa.

    United States government has imposed sanctions on eight Nigerian nationals over alleged links to terrorism financing and transnational cybercrime, intensifying global scrutiny on financial networks tied to extremist groups operating in West Africa. In a statement released by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced the designation of the individuals for allegedly facilitating financial and logistical support to Boko Haram and the Islamic State’s West Africa affiliates, including the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). Asset Freezes and Financial Restrictions under the sanctions, all property and financial interests of the designated individuals within U.S. jurisdiction have been blocked. American citizens and institutions are also prohibited from engaging in transactions with them. The measures are part of Washington’s broader counterterrorism and anti-money laundering strategy aimed at disrupting the financing pipelines of extremist groups in Africa and beyond. According to the Treasury Department, the targeted individuals allegedly leveraged cyber-enabled fraud schemes, digital payment platforms, and cross-border financial transfers to generate and move funds linked to terrorist activities. U.S. authorities maintain that dismantling such financial infrastructures is critical to weakening insurgent capabilities in the Lake Chad Basin region. Regional Security Implications Boko Haram, which originated in northeastern Nigeria, has waged a violent insurgency for over a decade, contributing to one of Africa’s most protracted humanitarian crises. The group and its splinter factions, including ISIL-aligned elements, have carried out attacks across Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon, destabilizing regional security frameworks. Security analysts note that the intersection of terrorism financing and cybercrime reflects an evolving threat landscape, where extremist groups increasingly exploit digital ecosystems to bypass traditional financial surveillance systems. The U.S. action signals heightened international coordination in targeting not only fighters on the battlefield but also financial operatives behind the scenes. Nigeria–US Counterterrorism Cooperation the sanctions underscore ongoing counterterrorism collaboration between Washington and Abuja. Nigeria has previously worked with international partners to curb terror financing, strengthen regulatory oversight, and prosecute cybercrime networks. While U.S. authorities did not immediately disclose detailed operational evidence publicly, officials emphasized that the sanctions are based on intelligence assessments and financial investigations conducted under U.S. counterterrorism statutes. Nigerian authorities have yet to issue a comprehensive response regarding the latest designations at the time of filing this report. Broader Global Context the action aligns with global efforts under frameworks such as United Nations Security Council resolutions targeting terrorism financing. The U.S. government has increasingly deployed financial sanctions as a strategic tool to disrupt extremist ecosystems, particularly in fragile regions where armed groups exploit economic vulnerabilities. International observers argue that sustained pressure on illicit financial flows—combined with governance reforms and regional security cooperation—remains essential to addressing the root causes of violent extremism in West Africa. Sources reporting on the sanctions has been carried by reputable international outlets including Reuters, Associated Press, and Al Jazeera, which cited statements from the U.S. Department of the Treasury and related U.S. agencies.

  • FG Files Three-Count Charge Against Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai Over Alleged Interception of NSA Nuhu Ribadu’s Phone Communications

    Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, Investigative Journalist at Sele Media Africa.

    FG Files Three-Count Charge Against Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai Over Alleged Interception of NSA Nuhu Ribadu’s Phone CommunicationsNigeria’s Federal Government has filed a three-count criminal charge against former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, accusing him of unlawfully intercepting the phone communications of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. According to court documents cited by multiple national media platforms, the charges allege that El-Rufai engaged in the unauthorized monitoring and interception of private communications involving Ribadu, in violation of Nigeria’s cybercrime and telecommunications laws. The Federal Government contends that the alleged actions constitute a serious breach of national security protocols and individual privacy protections. While the full details of the charge sheet were not immediately made public, legal analysts note that the case is likely to hinge on provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act and other statutes governing electronic surveillance and privacy rights in Nigeria.Legal and Political implications the development marks a significant escalation in the legal challenges facing the former governor, who served two terms as Kaduna State’s chief executive and remains a prominent figure in national politics. If proven, the allegations could carry substantial legal consequences, including fines and potential custodial sentences, depending on the interpretation of the relevant statutes. However, under Nigerian law, the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of competent jurisdiction. Political observers suggest the case may further intensify ongoing debates about governance, accountability, and the boundaries of intelligence gathering within Nigeria’s political landscape. Given the high-profile status of both individuals involved, the proceedings are expected to draw considerable public and institutional scrutiny. Broader Context the filing of charges comes at a time when issues of cybersecurity, privacy rights, and state surveillance remain at the forefront of national discourse. Nigeria has, in recent years, strengthened its legal framework to address cyber-related offences, amid concerns about digital espionage, data breaches, and unauthorized surveillance. The case also underscores the delicate balance between national security operations and constitutional protections of citizens’ communications. Legal experts emphasize that any interception of communications must be lawfully authorized under clearly defined procedures. As of the time of filing this report, representatives of El-Rufai had not publicly responded to the allegations. The court is expected to fix a date for arraignment in the coming days. Media coverage reputable national and international media outlets have reported on the development, including:Premium Times, The Punch, Channels Television, Reuters. Sele Media Africa will continue to monitor court proceedings and provide verified updates as the case unfolds.

  • Mandatory Real-Time Election Result Transmission: Protesters Storm National Assembly Over Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026

    Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, investigative Journalist at Sele Media Africa.

    Pro-democracy activists on Monday returned to Nigeria’s National Assembly in Abuja, intensifying calls for lawmakers to enshrine mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results in the proposed Electoral Act Amendment Bill, 2026. The demonstrators, comprising civil society organisations, youth groups and electoral reform advocates, argued that codifying compulsory electronic transmission of results would strengthen transparency, reduce post-election disputes, and deepen public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions. Demand for Clear Legal Backing at the heart of the protest is the insistence that the amended Electoral Act must explicitly mandate the real-time electronic upload and transmission of polling unit results to a central server. Protest leaders say ambiguity in existing provisions has contributed to controversies during previous elections, particularly regarding the use of technology by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Nigeria’s current Electoral Act, 2022, provides for electronic transmission of results, but critics argue that its language leaves room for discretion, creating inconsistencies in implementation. During the 2023 general elections, debates over electronic transmission and the functionality of INEC’s Results Viewing Portal (IReV) generated significant political tension and litigation. Media outlets including BBC News, Reuters, Al Jazeera, Channels Television and Premium Times have previously reported on controversies surrounding electronic result transmission and electoral reforms in Nigeria, underscoring the issue’s national and international significance. Protesters’ Position speaking during the demonstration, organisers emphasised that mandatory real-time transmission would: Minimise human interference in result collation enhance transparency at polling units reduce electoral violence linked to result manipulation curtail prolonged post-election litigation the protesters submitted a petition urging senators and members of the House of Representatives to remove any discretionary clauses and instead introduce clear, enforceable language compelling INEC to transmit results electronically and in real time.Lawmakers Yet to Respond Officially as of press time, the leadership of the National Assembly had not issued a formal statement in response to the latest protest. However, electoral reform remains a sensitive and high-stakes issue, particularly as Nigeria prepares for future off-cycle governorship elections and the 2027 general elections. Observers note that the debate reflects a broader continental push for digital electoral transparency. Across Africa, countries such as Kenya and Ghana have experimented with electronic result transmission systems, though not without challenges. Electoral Integrity and Democratic Confidence Electoral credibility remains central to Nigeria’s democratic stability. Analysts argue that clarity in legal provisions governing technology use in elections is critical to avoiding future disputes and restoring public confidence. For many reform advocates, the 2026 amendment process presents an opportunity to address perceived loopholes in the 2022 Act and align Nigeria’s electoral framework with evolving global best practices. Whether lawmakers will adopt mandatory real-time transmission remains uncertain. However, Monday’s protest signals that civil society engagement in Nigeria’s electoral reform debate is far from over. Sources: BBC News; Reuters; Al Jazeera; Channels Television; Premium Times.

  • Troops Neutralise Two Suspected Terrorists in Ondo, Recover Weapons in Akoko North-East Operation

    Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, investigative Journalist at Sele Media Africa.

    Troops of the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army have neutralised two suspected terrorists during a tactical operation along the Akunu–Auga road in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State, reinforcing ongoing military efforts to curb insecurity in Nigeria’s South-West region. According to military sources, the operation was conducted following credible intelligence on the movement of armed elements within the Akoko axis, a corridor that has witnessed sporadic security concerns in recent months. During the encounter, troops reportedly engaged the suspects in a firefight, resulting in the neutralization of two individuals believed to be linked to terrorist activities. Weapons and other military-grade items were recovered at the scene, although detailed inventory of the seized arms was not immediately disclosed. Authorities indicated that the operation formed part of broader counter-terrorism and anti-banditry measures aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating across forested and border communities. The Akoko area, which shares proximity with parts of Kogi and Edo states, has increasingly drawn security attention due to reports of armed banditry, kidnapping, and the infiltration of non-state armed groups. Security analysts note that the region’s difficult terrain has historically posed operational challenges for law enforcement agencies. The Nigerian Army has in recent months intensified clearance operations across multiple theatres, including the North-East and North-West, while extending surveillance and rapid-response deployments to emerging flashpoints in the South-West. Defence authorities maintain that intelligence-led operations remain central to degrading the operational capacity of terrorist and criminal groups nationwide.Independent reporting by reputable Nigerian outlets, including Premium Times, The Punch, and Channels Television, has consistently documented similar military engagements across various states as part of the Federal Government’s broader counter-insurgency framework. Security experts have cautioned, however, that sustained peace in affected communities will depend not only on military action but also on coordinated intelligence-sharing, community engagement, and cross-state collaboration to address the root drivers of insecurity. As of press time, the Defence Headquarters had not issued additional operational details, and no civilian casualties were reported in connection with the Ondo engagement. Sele Media Africa will continue to monitor developments as authorities consolidate efforts to strengthen security architecture across Nigeria’s sub-national regions. Sources: Premium Times; The Punch; Channels Television.

  • Exclusive: El-Rufai Admits Listening to Allegedly Tapped Call Involving NSA Nuhu Ribadu, Sparks Legal and Political Debate

    Reported by Afilawos Magana Sur, investigative Journalist at Sele Media Africa.

    Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, has publicly acknowledged accessing an intercepted telephone conversation allegedly involving Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, in which the latter purportedly discussed plans for his arrest. Speaking during an interview on Prime Time, a flagship programme on Arise Television, el-Rufai stated that “someone tapped” Ribadu’s phone and relayed the contents of the call to him. He claimed the conversation included instructions to security operatives to effect his arrest. “El-Rufai made the call because we listened to their calls,” the former governor said, alleging that the government routinely monitors the communications of political figures without court authorization. “The government thinks they are the only ones that listen to calls but we also have our ways. He made the call and gave the order. ”When pressed during the broadcast about the legality of the act, el-Rufai conceded that such interception was unlawful but argued that similar practices were widespread. The remarks have ignited fresh debate about surveillance, executive power, and the rule of law in Nigeria.Presidency responds the comments drew a swift reaction from Temitope Ajayi, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity to Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Writing on X (formerly Twitter), Ajayi said el-Rufai had admitted on national television that a phone belonging to the NSA was tapped on his behalf. He further argued that if security agencies were to investigate the alleged interception, el-Rufai might frame such action as political persecution. “By the time he is picked up to produce the person who illegally tapped the NSA’s phone, he would say President Tinubu is a ‘tyrant’ and persecuting him,” Ajayi wrote.Legal and Political implications under Nigerian law, unauthorized interception of private communications is prohibited, except under strict judicial authorization. Legal analysts note that admissions of illegal surveillance—whether by state or non-state actors—raise serious constitutional and criminal concerns. The public exchange between two high-profile figures underscores escalating tensions within Nigeria’s political establishment, particularly among key actors in the current administration and former allies.While no formal charges or investigations have been publicly announced as of press time, the development has triggered widespread public discourse about privacy rights, intelligence oversight, and the boundaries of political rivalry. Broader context El-Rufai, once considered a close ally of President Tinubu, has in recent months become increasingly vocal in his criticism of elements within the federal government. His latest remarks add a new dimension to ongoing political realignments ahead of Nigeria’s evolving governance and security debates. Media outlets including The Cable, Premium Times, Channels Television, and Arise News have reported on the interview and subsequent reaction from the presidency, reflecting the national significance of the issue. As Nigeria grapples with complex security challenges, the controversy also highlights the urgent need for transparent legal frameworks governing surveillance and intelligence operations—ensuring national security objectives do not undermine constitutional safeguards. Sources: The Cable; Premium Times; Channels Television; Arise News.