Supporters of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai reportedly intervened to prevent security operatives from arresting him at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
The incident occurred upon El-Rufai’s arrival from Cairo, Egypt. According to his Media Adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, security agents approached the former governor as he disembarked and attempted to take him into custody.
Adekeye stated that El-Rufai refused to comply without a formal invitation or warrant. During the encounter, the operatives allegedly seized his international passport from an aide, raising serious concerns about the handling of the situation.
El-Rufai’s legal team has strongly condemned the attempted arrest, describing it as a violation of his constitutional rights, including personal liberty, fair hearing, dignity, freedom of movement, and property ownership.
The episode takes place against the backdrop of heightened political tensions. El-Rufai recently defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and has been vocal in his criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
No official statement has been issued by security agencies or the federal government regarding the incident at the time of this report. Further developments are awaited.
