Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has officially spoken out regarding the alleged attempt by security operatives to arrest him on Thursday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
The incident, which occurred yesterday, has sparked widespread discussion and concern, particularly among legal and political observers. Governor El Rufai, through his legal representatives, has provided his account of the events, challenging the legality of the purported arrest attempt.
According to statements released by his legal team, the alleged move by security operatives at the airport was a breach of established legal protocols. The lawyers argued that an earlier invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was delivered to El Rufai’s residence while he was already outside the country. This timing, they asserted, rendered immediate compliance impossible.
Furthermore, El Rufai's legal team emphasized that they have been in continuous communication with the EFCC since December 2025. They stated that they had formally notified the commission that Governor El Rufai would appear voluntarily at its office by 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026. This pre scheduled arrangement, they argue, negates the necessity or legality of an attempted arrest upon his arrival.
Adding another dimension to the incident, the lawyers also claimed that some Nigerian citizens present at the airport during the alleged attempt protested the move. These individuals reportedly insisted that any arrest must follow due lawful process, highlighting a public demand for adherence to legal procedures.
El Rufai’s legal team did not mince words in their assessment of the incident. Citing specific provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), they contended that the alleged attempted arrest breached several of Governor El Rufai’s fundamental rights. These cited rights include the right to personal liberty, the right to a fair hearing, the right to dignity of the human person, the freedom of movement, and the right to own property. Such constitutional references underscore the gravity with which the former governor and his legal team view the events of Thursday.
This development places the EFCC under scrutiny regarding its operational procedures, particularly when dealing with high profile individuals who have indicated a willingness to cooperate. The emphasis on due process and fundamental rights is a cornerstone of democratic governance, and any perceived deviation from these principles often draws significant public and legal attention.
The incident is likely to generate further debate on the powers of security agencies, the rights of citizens, and the application of the rule of law in Nigeria. As a former governor and prominent political figure, Malam Nasir El Rufai's case is expected to be closely watched, setting potential precedents for how such matters are handled in the future.
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