Political analyst Okey Ikechukwu has described former Nasir El-Rufai’s recent claim about the alleged interception of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu’s communications as one of the most serious political errors of his career.
Speaking on The Morning Show, Ikechukwu said El-Rufai’s statements were specific, not speculative, particularly his assertion that Ribadu’s phone had been tapped. He noted that the claim suggested capabilities beyond the government to access confidential communications, which he described as a breach of privacy and an encroachment on national security infrastructure.
Ikechukwu warned that such remarks should be taken seriously, given that Nigeria and neighbouring countries—including Benin, Niger, and Chad—are confronting terrorism threats.
He said, “Well, the statements of Nasir El-Rufai are not gestural… He made very specific statements declaring that the communication lines of the NSA are tapped. He declared even more convincing, in case you’re doubting him, it’s not only the government that has the capacity to do that. You have no right to violate anybody’s privacy if somebody is holding a public office… On top of that, it is an encroachment on the infrastructure of national security.”
Ikechukwu concluded that the comment appeared politically motivated but warned that it carries serious implications for national security and regional stability. “This is a frightening statement that has to be treated with every seriousness. It was intended to get political mileage. Well, he has got more mileage than they can handle,” he added.