Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has strongly condemned what he described as an illegal attempt by security operatives to arrest him at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, shortly after his arrival from Cairo, Egypt.
The incident, which reportedly occurred on Thursday, has sparked fresh debate about executive overreach, due process, and the rule of law in Nigeria.
El-Rufai Alleges Illegal Arrest Attempt at Abuja Airport
In a post shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, El-Rufai accused authorities of disregarding legal procedures in what he termed an unlawful move to detain him.
“My lawyers have issued a statement that condemns the illegal attempt to arrest me today at the Abuja airport upon my arrival from Cairo,” he wrote.
He further stressed the need for institutional reforms, stating:
“Our country must outgrow executive overreach and deliberate disregard for the rule of law.”
The development adds to growing concerns about the conduct of security agencies and the protection of civil liberties, particularly involving former public office holders and perceived opposition figures.
Passport Allegedly Seized by Security Operatives
Earlier reports indicated that security operatives approached the former governor immediately after he landed in Abuja.
According to a statement released by his media aide, Muyiwa Adekeye, the officials attempted to take El-Rufai into custody without presenting a formal invitation letter or arrest warrant.
Adekeye alleged that El-Rufai declined to accompany the agents without due process, insisting on a lawful and documented request.
“Security agents today attempted to arrest Malam Nasir El-Rufai as he arrived on a flight from Cairo. Malam El-Rufai declined to follow them without a formal invitation,” the statement read.
The aide further claimed that the operatives seized the former governor’s international passport from one of his aides before leaving the scene.
“They, however, snatched his passport from an aide,” Adekeye added.
No Official Statement from Security Agencies
As of the time of filing this report, no official statement has been issued by relevant security agencies to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident or confirm whether El-Rufai is under investigation.
The alleged airport arrest attempt has intensified public discourse on executive power, security agency conduct, and adherence to constitutional procedures in Nigeria.
Renewed Debate on Rule of Law in Nigeria
The controversy has reignited national conversations about executive overreach, due process, and the rule of law—key pillars of Nigeria’s democracy.
Observers say the incident underscores the need for transparency, accountability, and strict compliance with legal standards in all interactions involving security authorities and citizens, regardless of political standing.
