The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has invited former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, for questioning, a move that has sparked debate following allegations of an attempted arrest at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
El-Rufai’s lawyer, Ubong Esop Akpan, in a statement on Thursday, criticised the actions of security operatives, describing the incident as a breach of constitutional rights and due process.
Akpan confirmed that the EFCC issued an invitation to his client but said the manner of delivery and subsequent actions raised legal concerns.
“The attempt to arrest Malam Nasir El-Rufai at the airport amounts to a clear violation of his constitutional rights and an abuse of power,” Akpan said.
He explained that the invitation was delivered to El-Rufai’s residence while the former governor was outside the country, making it unreasonable to demand immediate compliance.
“It is impractical to expect someone who is abroad to respond instantly to an invitation,” he said.
“Such an approach ignores basic fairness and logistical realities.”
According to him, El-Rufai’s legal team had already communicated with the EFCC and assured the agency that the former governor would honour the invitation upon his return.
“We informed the EFCC that Malam El-Rufai would appear at their office by 10 a.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026, to address the issues raised,” Akpan stated.
However, he alleged that operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) attempted to arrest El-Rufai at the airport without presenting any warrant or formal invitation letter.
“Security operatives moved to arrest him without showing any warrant or official document. When he asked for the invitation letter, none was provided,” Akpan said.
He further claimed that the operatives seized El-Rufai’s international passport without legal authority.
“The passport was taken from him without due process. This is an unlawful seizure of private property by state agents,” he alleged.
Akpan said members of the public at the airport questioned the action and insisted that any arrest must follow legal procedures.
“Some Nigerians at the scene insisted that he could only be arrested through proper legal process. Their reaction showed the public’s commitment to the rule of law,” he said.
He argued that the incident violated constitutional provisions on personal liberty, fair hearing, freedom of movement and property rights.
“No agency has unlimited power to detain citizens without following the law. Due process must always be respected,” Akpan said.
The lawyer demanded the immediate return of El-Rufai’s passport and an apology from the agencies involved, adding that his client remained ready to cooperate with any legitimate investigation.
“Malam El-Rufai is willing to honour any lawful invitation and will not evade authorities,” he said.
He added that the legal team would seek legal redress over the incident.
“We will take legal action against those responsible to uphold accountability and protect the rule of law,” Akpan concluded.
