Legal representatives of former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, have alleged that security operatives attempted to unlawfully arrest him on Thursday afternoon upon his arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, following a flight from Cairo.
In a statement issued in Abuja on February 12, 2026, El-Rufai’s counsel, Ubong Esop Akpan, described the incident as an “illegal attempted arrest” and accused security agencies of violating constitutional procedures.
According to the statement, El-Rufai arrived on Egypt Air flight MS 877 when operatives identified as members of the Department of State Services (DSS) allegedly moved to detain him without presenting a warrant or formal documentation.
The legal team said the attempted arrest was linked to an invitation previously issued by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Counsel argued that the EFCC invitation was delivered to El-Rufai’s residence while he was outside the country, making immediate compliance impractical.
The statement added that lawyers had been corresponding with the EFCC since December 2025 and had formally notified the agency that El-Rufai would appear voluntarily at its office by 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026.
According to the statement, security operatives at the airport were unable to produce an arrest warrant or a copy of the invitation when requested.
The lawyers further alleged that El-Rufai’s international passport was taken by operatives during the encounter. They characterized the seizure as unlawful and a violation of property and movement rights.
The statement also claimed that bystanders at the airport questioned the operatives’ actions and insisted that any arrest should follow due legal process.
El-Rufai’s counsel cited several constitutional provisions they believe were breached, including sections relating to personal liberty, fair hearing, dignity of the human person, freedom of movement, and protection of property.
The legal team demanded the immediate return of the passport, a halt to further detention efforts, and a formal apology from the agencies involved.
They also maintained that El-Rufai is prepared to honor lawful invitations from law enforcement authorities and would not evade investigation. The lawyers indicated that legal action would be pursued against officials and agencies connected to the incident.
