Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, on Monday arrived at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in Abuja amid ongoing investigations into alleged corruption during his tenure.
His arrival reportedly sparked tension at the commission’s entrance, as security operatives restricted members of his entourage from entering the premises.
Supporters of the ex-governor gathered nearby, chanting slogans and holding placards reading, “El-Rufai is a citizen, not a subject” and “We stand with El-Rufai. We stand for law.”
A video circulating online showed the supporters claiming they were dispersed with teargas, while an opposing group carrying banners such as “El-Rufai cannot hide behind politics, let the law catch up” was allowed to assemble nearby.
Smaller placards urged, “Answer the charge, El-Rufai.”
El-Rufai, an African Democratic Congress chieftain, had travelled abroad on November 30, 2025, and reportedly received a letter of invitation from the EFCC in December, sparking speculation that he might face arrest upon return.
He had informed the commission that he would appear at their office by 10 a.m. on Monday.
His media adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, alleged that security agents attempted to arrest El-Rufai upon his arrival at Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport from Cairo, Egypt, on Thursday, saying, “Security agents today attempted to arrest Malam Nasir El-Rufai as he arrived on a flight from Cairo.
Malam El-Rufai declined to follow them without a formal invitation.” Adekeye also claimed that officials seized the ex-governor’s passport during the encounter.
Speaking to BBC Hausa last Wednesday, El-Rufai described the airport incident as “executive overreach and a deliberate disregard for the rule of law,” warning that he could be arrested at any moment, as several of his former aides had already been detained.
Investigations by the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission reportedly continue, including a probe initiated by his successor, Uba Sani, into El-Rufai’s tenure.
The former governor has also intensified criticism of President Bola Tinubu and the ruling party, asserting that he was never an ally of the president.
More details are expected as the investigation unfolds.
