Ribadu Warns El-Rufai Over NSA Tapping Claims, Labels It Political Misstep

Lagos, Nigeria – February 17, 2026 – Political analyst Prof. Okey Ikechukwu has described recent statements by former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai as one of the most significant political blunders of his career, warning that the claims could have serious national security implications.

Speaking on The Morning Show on Arise Television, Ikechukwu said El-Rufai’s assertions were precise, not speculative, particularly his claim that the communication lines of the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) had been tapped.

El-Rufai reportedly suggested that the capability to carry out such surveillance extended beyond government agencies, a statement Ikechukwu says crosses critical boundaries.

“Nasir El-Rufai made very specific statements declaring that the communication lines of the NSA are tapped,” Ikechukwu said. “He even suggested, in case there was doubt, that it’s not only the government that has the capacity to do that. You have no right to violate the privacy of public office holders, especially regarding confidential information. This is an encroachment on national security infrastructure.”

The analyst warned that the remarks could have regional repercussions, given the ongoing threat of terrorism in Nigeria, Benin, Niger, and Chad. He described the comments as “frightening” and said they should be treated with utmost seriousness rather than dismissed for political gain.

“It seems to me one of El-Rufai’s biggest political mistakes,” Ikechukwu said. “It’s a matter of national security, and countries battling Boko Haram and other terrorist groups will be very concerned. This statement was intended for political mileage, but the consequences could be far-reaching.”