Human rights lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, on Monday, June 22, 2026, testified before the Federal High Court in Abuja in the trial of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over alleged breach of national security.
Adeyanju appeared as the second prosecution witness (PW-2) in proceedings instituted by the Department of State Services before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik. He was led in evidence by DSS counsel, Oluwole Aladedoye, SAN.
The case stems from El-Rufai’s television interview in which he alleged he intercepted a phone conversation involving the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and claimed it contained directives linked to his arrest.
He also referenced an alleged security encounter at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on February 12 after returning from Cairo.
At Monday’s hearing, Adeyanju tendered the subpoena compelling his appearance. It was admitted as Exhibit G without objection from the defence team led by Paul Erokoro, SAN.
He told the court that reports on February 12 suggested El-Rufai could be invited or arrested, adding that he publicly urged compliance with lawful security invitations.
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He also confirmed appearing on Arise Television on February 13, the same day El-Rufai featured, noting his segment followed the former governor’s interview.
The court played El-Rufai’s recorded interview, which Adeyanju confirmed reflected the broadcast.
The prosecution also tendered Adeyanju’s own televised interview with anchor Charles Aniagolu alongside a certificate of compliance. Both were admitted as Exhibits H and H1 without objection.
In the replayed interview, Adeyanju said he did not believe El-Rufai would have been arrested at the airport if that had been intended, and referenced reports of an ICPC investigation at the time.
He also said El-Rufai should face investigation over corruption allegations before prosecution, describing his situation as “karma” tied to alleged past abuses.
Under cross-examination, Erokoro SAN challenged his account of El-Rufai’s claim, suggesting it could have involved speakerphone communication rather than interception. Adeyanju maintained he had no direct knowledge and would not speculate.
Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the matter to June 23 for continuation of trial.