Nigeria TV Info 

El‑Rufai Sparks Controversy After Airport ‘Arrest’ Drama

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El‑Rufai was at the centre of a dramatic scene at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Thursday, February 12, 2026, after security operatives allegedly attempted to detain him as he returned from Cairo, Egypt.

The incident began as El‑Rufai disembarked from his flight and was approached by armed personnel who reportedly sought to escort him away without presenting a warrant or formal invitation. His media aide said the former governor refused to comply, insisting that due process be followed. Supporters at the airport intervened and helped him leave the scene.

El‑Rufai has condemned the attempt as “illegal” and “executive overreach”, accusing security agencies of blatant disregard for the rule of law. In a statement, his lawyers said an earlier invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was sent while he was abroad — making immediate compliance impractical — and that they had informed the agency he would appear voluntarily upon return. They also alleged that security agents seized El‑Rufai’s passport during the encounter.

The legal team described the encounter as a violation of constitutional rights, including personal liberty, fair hearing, dignity of the human person, and freedom of movement, and demanded the return of the passport and a formal apology.

As of now, no official statement has been issued by the Department of State Services (DSS) or the EFCC. The incident has stirred debate over due process, political tensions, and the independence of security agencies in Nigeria’s current political landscape.