Sylvester Idowu “Wari”
A coalition of Niger Delta groups has warned that a compromise of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu’s communication channels could undermine intelligence coordination and threaten national stability.
The coalition has therefore called on President Bola Tinubu to order an immediate investigation into former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai over his comments suggesting a breach of national security.
According to the coalition, El-Rufai revealed in an interview on state television that an individual was able to wiretap NSA phones and eavesdrop on private conversations.
The groups described the statement as “deeply disturbing” and a “direct attack on the integrity of Nigeria’s security architecture.”
They argued that given the highly sensitive role of the Office of the National Security Adviser in coordinating intelligence and protecting the nation from internal and external threats, such an interception, if carried out, would amount to a serious criminal offense under Nigerian law.
A joint statement released on Sunday by Ifeanyi Blackson, Abby Georgewill, Ediri Tare Ogheneovo, Nsika Okon Moses, Tritseju Meneti and Akintoye Prince called for El-Rufai’s arrest and a comprehensive investigation by security agencies.
Blackson said the alleged confession, if true, constitutes a “serious violation of national security regulations” and called for El-Rufai to be immediately invited for questioning by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Mr. Georgewill stressed that no political ambition should override the sanctity of Nigeria’s intelligence agencies and called on the Federal Government to act decisively to reassure the public that the country’s security framework is intact.
Ogeneovo described the development as a “disturbing revelation” and insisted that anyone who illegally intercepts NSA communications must face swift legal action, regardless of their status or influence.
Mr. Moses warned that the issue goes beyond partisan politics and that failure to investigate could set a dangerous precedent for sensitive state communications to be treated lightly.
Mr. Meneti called for transparency in the investigation process, stressing that Nigerians should be clear on whether such violations occurred and who is responsible.
Prince urged President Tinubu to demonstrate zero tolerance for any action that could undermine national security institutions, stressing that accountability is essential to maintain public trust.
The coalition further called on security agencies, including the DSS and other relevant authorities, to launch a full-fledged and independent investigation.
They insisted that El-Rufai be provided with a detailed explanation, including the identity of the person who allegedly carried out the phone tapping and the circumstances under which the information was obtained.
