Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi on Thursday night paid a solidarity visit to former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai at his residence in Abuja, following a dramatic encounter between the former governor and security operatives earlier in the day.
The visit came hours after officials believed to be from the Department of State Services attempted to take El-Rufai into custody at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport shortly after he arrived from Cairo.
Airport Confrontation
Sources said the operatives approached El-Rufai as he disembarked from his flight and asked him to accompany them. The former governor reportedly declined, insisting he would not submit to arrest without a formal warrant or written invitation, triggering a tense standoff that drew the attention of supporters and bystanders.
His media adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, disclosed details of the incident in a series of social media posts, stating that the officials attempted to compel El-Rufai to follow them but failed to present any legal documentation authorising the action.
Video footage circulating online showed a charged atmosphere at the airport, with onlookers demanding that due process be followed. During the confrontation, Adekeye alleged that operatives seized the former governor’s international passport before leaving the scene when he refused to comply.
Amaechi Condemns Attempted Arrest
Amaechi, who visited El-Rufai later that night, criticised the attempted arrest, describing it as improper and expressing concern over what he saw as a disregard for established legal procedures.
Uncertainty Over Agency Involvement
As of the time of reporting, it remained unclear whether the operation was initiated solely by the DSS or involved the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. Neither agency had released an official statement clarifying its role.
Atiku Raises Alarm Over Politicisation Claims
Reacting through a statement, Atiku condemned what he termed a “crude and unorthodox attempt” to detain the former governor, warning against the politicisation of anti-corruption efforts.
He maintained that while accountability is essential, enforcement institutions must avoid actions that could erode public confidence or create the impression of selective targeting, particularly of opposition figures, including members of the African Democratic Congress.
Atiku also revisited past reform debates, arguing that stronger institutional safeguards were needed to ensure the independence of anti-graft agencies. He referenced earlier recommendations during the administration of Umaru Musa Yar’adua that sought structural changes to shield such bodies from political influence.
Growing Political Tension
The incident has added another layer of tension to Nigeria’s already charged political climate, with analysts warning that disputes involving high-profile figures and security agencies risk deepening mistrust unless handled transparently and in strict adherence to the law.
Observers say official clarification from the relevant authorities will be critical in determining whether the episode was part of a lawful investigation or a procedural misstep that escalated unnecessarily.
