Southern Kaduna Group Backs Investigation of El-Rufai Over Wiretapping Allegations

By Abubakar Labaran, Kafanchan

A coalition of civil society organisations in Southern Kaduna has thrown its weight behind security agencies investigating former Governor Nasir El-Rufai over allegations that he authorised the wiretapping of the National Security Adviser's phone lines.

Speaking at a press conference in Kafanchan on Friday, Gideon Mutum, spokesperson for the Coalition for Southern Kaduna Renaissance, called for El-Rufai's full prosecution should any wrongdoing be established

The coalition warned that intercepting communications of the NSA amounts to a grave threat to national security, demanding a thorough and impartial investigation into the matter.

"The Office of the National Security Adviser is a critical institution in coordinating intelligence, strategy, and response," Mutum stated. "Any action, statement, or involvement that suggests interference with high-level security communications is not a trivial matter—it is a matter of national survival."

He stressed that compromised security communications could have devastating consequences. "Intelligence leaks can embolden criminal networks, undermine counterterrorism operations, and endanger the lives of citizens and security personnel alike. Therefore, any allegation or admission relating to such matters must be thoroughly investigated without fear or favour."

Mutum also distanced the coalition from a pro-El-Rufai rally held earlier in the week by another group in Southern Kaduna, describing such expressions of solidarity as misplaced.

"Solidarity must be rooted in truth, justice, and the collective interest of our people—not personal loyalty or political alignment," he said. "It is troubling when any son or daughter of Southern Kaduna attempts to express solidarity with an individual whose tenure coincided with persistent violence, loss of lives and property in the zone."

Other speakers included Dr Christopher Yerima, chairman of the Academic Staff Union at the College of Education, Kaduna State chapter, and Isaac Joseph, former national youth leader of the Southern Kaduna People's Union.

They cautioned against framing the lawful investigation as persecution or a witch hunt, noting that accountability strengthens democracy. According to them, no individual is above the law, regardless of status, former office, or political affiliation, adding that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.

The Coalition for Southern Kaduna Renaissance brings together civil society organisations, women's groups, students, and faith-based organisations committed to justice, security, and the dignity of its people

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