The Digest:
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.
Sources: Premium Times, Arise Television, Temitope Ajayi/Facebook
