SERAP has urged President Tinubu to withdraw the phone tapping regulations, claiming they are unconstitutional and violate Nigeria's international obligations.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has formally requested President Bola Tinubu to instruct the Minister of Communications to revoke the Lawful Interception of Communications Regulations enacted in 2019. SERAP argues that these regulations are unconstitutional and in violation of Nigeria's commitments to international human rights law. The letter addressing this issue was dated February 21, 2026, and highlights SERAP's concerns regarding the potential for abuse without sufficient oversight.
In its communication, SERAP emphasized the need for a legislative framework concerning lawful interception that adheres to constitutional protections and includes judicial oversight to prevent misuse. SERAP is advocating for transparency and inclusivity in the legislative process, indicating the necessity for public consultation and alignment with Nigeria's international human rights obligations. They argue that any framework must respect citizens' rights and freedoms.
This appeal follows serious allegations from former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, who claimed that the National Security Adviser had unauthorized access to his phone communications. These allegations underscore the pressing public concern regarding privacy and surveillance in Nigeria, prompting civil society organizations like SERAP to act decisively in defending citizens' rights against potential government overreach.
