The Department of State Services (DSS) has applied to a Federal High Court in Abuja seeking permission to protect the identities of witnesses set to testify in the ongoing trial of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
According to reports, the request follows El-Rufai’s arraignment on a five-count amended charge bordering on the alleged unauthorised interception of a telephone conversation involving Nuhu Ribadu.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges when the case was called in court.
Counsel to the DSS, Oluwole Aladeloye, urged the court to allow the witnesses to testify under pseudonyms and outside public view, citing security concerns.
He argued that revealing their identities could expose them and their families to potential harm from individuals sympathetic to the defendant.
However, the application was strongly opposed by El-Rufai’s lawyer, who insisted that granting anonymity would violate the defendant’s constitutional right to know and challenge his accusers, potentially undermining a fair trial.
The defence further requested access to full evidence to prepare its case, while also filing an application seeking to quash the charges.
The DSS opposed these requests, maintaining that some of the materials sought were not part of its filed processes.
In addition, El-Rufai has submitted a bail application, which the prosecution indicated it would not oppose.
The court subsequently adjourned proceedings to May 18, 19, and 20, 2026, when it is expected to rule on pending applications, including the request for witness anonymity and other pre-trial issues.
Legal analysts say the case could set an important precedent in Nigeria, particularly on the balance between national security considerations and the right to a fair hearing in criminal trials.