A Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled a ruling on October 26 on the no-case submission filed by former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai. El-Rufai is standing trial over alleged unlawful interception of the telephone communications of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu. The court, led by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, fixed the date after El-Rufai’s lawyer and the prosecution’s lawyer delivered their final addresses on the no-case submission.
El-Rufai’s no-case submission contends that the prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case against him. He argues that this failure means he should not be required to enter a defence. The prosecution, however, has countered this position, maintaining that there is sufficient evidence to warrant El-Rufai’s defence. The Department of State Services (DSS) is prosecuting El-Rufai on a five-count amended charge.
The trial has garnered significant attention due to the nature of the allegations. The case revolves around the alleged unlawful interception of communications, a serious offence that raises questions about national security and privacy. El-Rufai, who served as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, has maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings.
The prosecution, led by the DSS, has presented its case, arguing that El-Rufai’s actions were unlawful and in violation of existing laws. The defence, on the other hand, has insisted that the prosecution’s evidence is weak and does not merit further proceedings. The court’s decision on the no-case submission is expected to determine the next steps in the trial.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, who is presiding over the case, has ensured that the trial progresses in a fair and timely manner. Her decision to fix a date for the ruling on the no-case submission reflects the court’s commitment to dispensing justice. Legal analysts and stakeholders are closely watching the case, as it has implications for the interpretation of laws related to communication and national security.
The case against El-Rufai also raises broader questions about the powers of state governors and their accountability under the law. As a former governor, El-Rufai’s actions and their implications are being scrutinized closely. The outcome of this trial could set important precedents for similar cases in the future.
On October 26, the court will deliver its ruling on the no-case submission. If the court rules in favour of El-Rufai, the case could be dismissed. Conversely, if the ruling goes against him, El-Rufai will be required to present his defence. Regardless of the outcome, the case is likely to continue generating significant interest and debate.
Key points
- The Federal High Court in Abuja will rule on Nasir El-Rufai’s no-case submission on October 26.
- El-Rufai is standing trial for allegedly unlawfully intercepting the telephone communications of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
- The DSS is prosecuting El-Rufai on a five-count amended charge.
