By Lagos Panorama Correspondent
Abuja, February 12, 2026
Counsel to former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has condemned what he described as an attempted unlawful arrest of his client by security operatives at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Thursday afternoon.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the legal team alleged that operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) moved to arrest El-Rufai upon his arrival aboard Egypt Air flight MS 877 from Cairo, without presenting a warrant or formal letter of invitation.
According to the statement, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had earlier delivered an invitation to El-Rufai’s residence while he was reportedly outside the country. His lawyers maintained that they had formally corresponded with the Commission since December 2025, assuring that their client would honour the invitation upon his return.
The legal team further stated that the EFCC had been notified that El-Rufai would voluntarily appear at its office by 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026. They described the alleged attempt to arrest him at the airport despite this communication as “arbitrary” and inconsistent with due process.
The statement also claimed that security operatives were unable to produce a warrant or written directive when requested and that El-Rufai’s international passport was taken during the encounter. The lawyers characterised the action as unlawful and a violation of constitutional safeguards.
Citing Sections 34, 35, 36, 41 and 44 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the counsel argued that any arrest must comply strictly with established legal procedures, including lawful justification and respect for fundamental rights such as personal liberty, dignity, fair hearing, freedom of movement and property ownership.
The legal team demanded the immediate return of the former governor’s passport, cessation of what it termed “unlawful efforts” to detain him, and a formal apology from the relevant authorities. It also indicated that legal action would be pursued against any agency or individuals found responsible for alleged constitutional breaches.
The statement emphasised that El-Rufai would honour all legitimate law enforcement summons and had returned to Nigeria following medical treatment abroad, despite being aware of possible plans to arrest him.
As of press time, there was no official response from the DSS or the EFCC regarding the allegations.
Further developments are expected as the matter unfolds.
