Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai on Monday appeared at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja over ongoing investigations linked to alleged corruption during his time in office.
His arrival at the commission’s office heightened tension around the premises, as security operatives reportedly barred members of his entourage from entering the facility.
Supporters of the former governor gathered near the junction leading to the EFCC headquarters, chanting slogans and displaying placards that read, “El-Rufai is a citizen, not a subject” and “We stand with El-Rufai. We stand for law.”
Videos circulating online showed the supporters accusing security agents of dispersing them with teargas while permitting a separate group of anti-El-Rufai demonstrators to assemble nearby. The opposing protesters carried banners urging him to face the allegations, with messages such as, “El-Rufai cannot hide behind politics, let the law catch up,” and “Answer the charge, El-Rufai.”
Sources disclosed that the former governor had travelled abroad on November 30, 2025, and that the EFCC subsequently delivered a letter of invitation to his residence in December, fuelling speculation about a possible arrest upon his return. El-Rufai had formally notified the commission of his intention to appear at its office by 10 a.m. on Monday.
His media adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, alleged that security officials earlier attempted to arrest the ex-governor upon his arrival at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport from Cairo, Egypt, last Thursday. According to Adekeye, El-Rufai declined to comply without a formal invitation, after which his passport was temporarily seized.
In an interview, El-Rufai described the airport incident as “executive overreach” and a violation of due process, adding that he feared he could be detained at any time. He further noted that some of his former aides had already been arrested.
Investigations by the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission are reportedly ongoing, including a probe initiated by his successor, Uba Sani, into activities during his administration.
El-Rufai, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, has denied any wrongdoing, alleging that the investigations are politically motivated. He has also intensified criticism of Bola Tinubu and the ruling party, maintaining that he was never aligned with the president.
Boluwatife Enome
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