DSS Closes Case Against El-Rufai as Ex-Governor Moves for No-Case Submission

The Department of State Services (DSS) has formally closed its case against former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, in the ongoing alleged wiretapping trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

At Tuesday’s proceedings, prosecuting counsel, Oluwole Aladedoye, informed the court that the DSS would not be calling any additional witnesses, bringing the prosecution’s case to a close.

Following the development, El-Rufai’s lead counsel, Paul Erokoro (SAN), announced plans to file a no-case submission, arguing that the prosecution had failed to present sufficient evidence to warrant the former governor entering a defence.

The defence requested two weeks to file the application, while the prosecution sought a similar period to respond.

The DSS also asked the court to review some of El-Rufai’s bail conditions, describing them as difficult to satisfy. However, the defence countered that the requirements, including sureties who are Level 17 civil servants with properties in Abuja’s Maitama or Asokoro districts and verification from the Kaduna State Traditional Council were excessively stringent.

Ruling on the application, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik dismissed the request to vary the bail terms, maintaining that qualified public officers capable of meeting the conditions exist.

The court subsequently adjourned the matter until September 22, 2026, for the hearing of the no-case submission and further proceedings.

El-Rufai is facing trial on allegations linked to unlawful wiretapping, charges he has consistently denied.