DSS arraigns Nasir El-Rufai in Abuja on amended five-count communications interception case

What changed in court on Thursday?

The prosecution said it had filed a further amended five-count charge on April 13 to replace an earlier three-count case. Defence counsel said he had been served and did not oppose the substitution, after which the court struck out the earlier charge and proceeded with El-Rufai's plea on the amended one Punch Newspapers,Daily Post Nigeria,Guardian.

What are the allegations about?

Multiple reports say the case centers on allegations that El-Rufai unlawfully intercepted communications involving National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. Some reports also say the amended counts include allegations related to national security, communications laws, and access to protected or classified systems or information Punch Newspapers,Premium Times Niger…,P.M. News.

What happens next in the case?

The immediate next issues before the court are El-Rufai's bail request and the scheduling of further proceedings. Reports say the court adjourned for hearings in May and that the trial has not yet reached the evidence stage Sahara Reporters,Premium Times Niger….