El-Rufai to appear before EFCC monday after alleged airport arrest attempt

Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, is scheduled to appear before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) by 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026.

This was disclosed by his counsel, Ubong Esop Akpan, while reacting to what he described as an attempt by security operatives to arrest El-Rufai at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Thursday.

According to Akpan, El-Rufai was approached by security operatives shortly after arriving in Abuja aboard Egypt Air flight MS 877 from Cairo on Thursday afternoon.

Describing the development as unlawful, Akpan said the move amounted to “a flagrant violation of constitutional rights, executive overreach, and a deliberate disregard for the rule of law.”

He explained that the EFCC’s invitation was delivered to El-Rufai’s residence while he was already outside the country, making it unreasonable to expect his immediate attendance.

“The invitation from the EFCC was delivered to Malam El-Rufai’s residence while he was already abroad, rendering it inherently illogical and impractical to demand immediate attendance to answer purported allegations,” Akpan stated.

The lawyer added that the legal team had since December 2025 formally communicated with the anti-graft agency, assuring it of El-Rufai’s willingness to honour the invitation upon his return to Nigeria.

He further noted that the EFCC had been notified that the former governor would voluntarily appear at its office at 10:00 a.m. on Monday to address the issues raised.

“Resorting to arrest despite this clear commitment exemplifies arbitrary conduct and undermines procedural integrity,” Akpan said.

Akpan maintained that there was no justifiable basis for the attempted arrest, describing it as an infringement on El-Rufai’s constitutional rights and fundamental freedoms.

He also alleged that despite prior knowledge of a possible arrest, El-Rufai returned to the country after medical treatment and rest abroad, reiterating his readiness to face any legitimate inquiry.

The legal team demanded the immediate cessation of what it termed unlawful efforts to detain the former governor, the return of his passport, and a formal apology for the alleged infringement on his rights and dignity.

The EFCC has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.