Nigeria’s anti-graft agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on Monday questioned former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over allegations of financial mismanagement reportedly amounting to ₦423 billion during his eight-year administration.
El-Rufai, who governed Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, is currently a prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Sources indicated that he honoured the EFCC’s invitation voluntarily, days after his legal representatives confirmed he would make himself available to investigators.
Attempted Airport Arrest Sparks Controversy
The invitation followed a controversial incident last Thursday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, where operatives reportedly attempted to arrest the former governor before he left the country. His legal team later described the move as unlawful and a violation of his constitutional rights.
According to his counsel, Ubong Akpan, the EFCC’s summons was received while El-Rufai was abroad, and there was no legal justification for what he termed an “attempted arrest and accompanying harassment.”
“There exists no justifiable basis for this attempted arrest or the accompanying mistreatment,” Akpan stated, insisting that his client remains willing to cooperate with lawful investigations.
Supporters, Protesters Converge at EFCC Headquarters
On Monday morning, El-Rufai arrived at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja accompanied by a large number of supporters, creating a charged atmosphere around the commission’s office complex in Jabi.
Witnesses reported that two opposing groups of demonstrators gathered at the scene.
- One faction sang solidarity songs and expressed support for the former governor.
- Another demanded a thorough and transparent investigation into the corruption allegations linked to his tenure.
Security personnel restricted access to the premises, preventing many supporters from entering the building alongside him, leading to brief tension at the entrance.
EFCC Confirms Ongoing Interrogation
A senior source within the commission confirmed that El-Rufai was being interrogated over multiple allegations tied to contracts, financial transactions, and governance decisions made during his administration.
“He is currently with investigators, but it is too early to determine how long the session will last,” the source disclosed, adding that the duration of questioning would depend on the scope of issues under review.
Another insider suggested that the investigation could lead to formal charges if sufficient evidence is established, though no official decision has been announced.
Calls for Due Process, Not Politics
Muhammad Abdullahi, who spoke on behalf of a civil society group protesting outside the EFCC office, cautioned against politicising the case.
“We reiterate our firm position that this matter remains a lawful and constitutional issue between the former governor and the Kaduna State Government. It must not be reduced to political drama or emotional manipulation,” he said.
EFCC Urges Calm Amid Rising Tension
Responding to the protests, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale appealed for calm, assuring demonstrators that their concerns would be formally reviewed.
“The EFCC recognises the right of Nigerians to lawful protest. Your demands will be communicated to the Executive Chairman,” Oyewale stated.
“I want to assure you that the commission will carry out its duties professionally and address all issues raised.”
A High-Profile Probe With Political Implications
The investigation marks one of the most high-profile probes involving a former state governor in recent years and has drawn nationwide attention, given El-Rufai’s influence in national politics and policy debates.
Analysts say the case could test the EFCC’s commitment to accountability while also shaping public perception ahead of future political alignments, particularly as anti-corruption enforcement continues to intersect with Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
