Tinubu Presidency Seeks Investigation Over El-Rufai’s Wiretapping Claim Against NSA Ribadu!
Tinubu Presidency Seeks Investigation Over El-Rufai’s Wiretapping Claim Against NSA Ribadu!
Reported by Mustapha Labake Omowumi (Journalist)| Sele Media Africa
The presidency has called for a formal investigation following remarks by former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, in which he allegedly admitted to authorising the surveillance of National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu during his time in office.
In a strongly worded response, the presidency described the development as serious and deserving of scrutiny, stressing that any unauthorised wiretapping of senior government officials raises significant legal and national security concerns.
Officials within the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said the matter should be thoroughly examined to establish the facts and determine whether any laws were breached. The presidency emphasised its commitment to the rule of law and institutional accountability.
Background to the controversy
The issue emerged after El-Rufai reportedly made comments suggesting that Ribadu who previously served as Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) before his current appointment had been subject to surveillance while the former governor was in office.
The revelation has triggered political debate within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and among security observers, many of whom say the matter touches on sensitive questions about intelligence oversight and executive authority.
Legal analysts note that wiretapping in Nigeria is governed by strict provisions that typically require judicial approval and adherence to due process. Any deviation, they say, could carry serious legal implications.
Presidency stresses due process
Presidential sources insist the call for a probe is not politically motivated but aimed at protecting institutional integrity. The administration maintains that allegations involving surveillance of top security officials must be handled transparently to preserve public trust.
Security experts consulted by Sele Media Africa say the outcome of any investigation could clarify the boundaries of state-level intelligence activities and their interaction with federal security architecture.
Political and security implications
The controversy comes at a time of heightened sensitivity around national security coordination. Observers warn that public disputes among senior political figures could distract from ongoing efforts to address security challenges across the country.
Within APC circles, reactions have been mixed, with some party stakeholders urging restraint and others calling for full disclosure of the circumstances surrounding the alleged surveillance.
As of press time, neither El-Rufai nor Ribadu had issued detailed public statements expanding on the matter beyond earlier remarks attributed to them in the media.
What comes next
Analysts expect that if a formal probe is launched, it may involve security agencies and possibly legislative oversight, depending on the scope defined by the presidency. The development is likely to remain a significant political talking point in the coming days.
Sources:
Premium Times, Channels Television, Daily Trust
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