Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, is set to appear before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026, following an attempted arrest by security operatives at the Abuja airport.
Ubong Esop Akpan, counsel to El-Rufai, disclosed that the former governor was approached by security personnel on Thursday afternoon upon his arrival from Cairo, Egypt, via Egypt Air flight MS 877.
According to Akpan, the attempted arrest violated constitutional rights and demonstrated executive overreach.
“The EFCC had delivered an invitation to Malam El-Rufai while he was abroad, making an immediate arrest impractical and unreasonable. We formally communicated with the EFCC in December 2025, assuring that he would comply upon his return,” Akpan said.
The lawyer explained that the EFCC was notified that El-Rufai would voluntarily appear at their office at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, specifying the exact time and place.
“Arresting him despite this clear commitment exemplifies arbitrary conduct and undermines procedural integrity,” Akpan added.
He further argued that the attempt infringed on key constitutional provisions, including personal liberty, freedom of movement, and property rights.
“Despite intelligence suggesting plans to intercept him, Malam El-Rufai returned after medical treatment abroad, affirming his willingness to face any legitimate inquiry. This premeditated interception at the airport is a clear abuse of state power,” Akpan said.
The lawyer demanded the immediate cessation of all unlawful detention efforts, the return of El-Rufai’s passport, and a formal apology for the infringement of his rights.
