SERAP Warns Tinubu Over Phone Surveillance Claims

SERAP Warns Tinubu Over Phone Surveillance Claims

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has asked President Bola Tinubu to withdraw the Lawful Interception of Communications Regulations 2019, describing them as unconstitutional and unlawful.

In a letter dated 21 February 2026 and signed by deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the group urged the President to direct Communications Minister Bosun Tijani to immediately revoke the rules and begin an open legislative process to replace them.

The call followed claims by former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai that the National Security Adviser’s call was tapped. He reportedly said, “The NSA’s call was tapped.

According to the organisation, the rules give broad interception powers on grounds such as national security and economic wellbeing without clear limits, proper court oversight or transparency.

It warned that as the 2027 elections draw closer, unchecked surveillance could be misused against political opponents, journalists and civil society actors.

SERAP also faulted provisions allowing warrantless interception, extended data retention and vague definitions of authorised agencies.

It said these gaps create room for abuse and legal uncertainty. The group gave the Federal Government seven days to act, warning that it would pursue legal steps if its demands are ignored.