Former Kaduna State Governor and African Democratic Congress (ADC) leader, Nasiru El-Rufai, on Monday appeared at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters in Abuja following an official invitation.
El-Rufai, who is under investigation for alleged corruption during his tenure as governor, arrived the EFCC offices accompanied by a large contingent of supporters.
This appearance comes after last week’s tense incident at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, where the former governor reportedly resisted an arrest attempt. In statements following the airport confrontation, El-Rufai accused National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu of orchestrating the episode.
According to Ubong Esop Akpan, counsel to El-Rufai, the EFCC invitation was initially delivered while the former governor was overseas. Akpan argued that expecting immediate compliance under those circumstances was “inherently illogical and impractical,” undermining procedural fairness.
“The invitation from the EFCC was delivered to Malam El-Rufai’s residence while he was abroad, making immediate attendance impossible. Demanding instantaneous compliance from someone outside the jurisdiction disregards logistical realities and legal fairness,” Akpan said.
He further noted that El-Rufai had formally communicated with the EFCC since December 2025, pledging to comply upon his return.
“We notified them that he would voluntarily appear at their office by 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026, specifying the exact location and time. Proceeding with an arrest despite this clear commitment exemplifies arbitrary conduct and undermines procedural integrity,” Akpan added.
Akpan insisted there was no legal basis for the attempted detention, calling it a violation of constitutional rights. He demanded the immediate cessation of all detention efforts, the return of El-Rufai’s passport, and a formal apology for the alleged infringement of his freedoms.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
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