Former Kaduna State governor Nasir El‑Rufai has alleged that security operatives attempted to detain him upon his arrival in Abuja, claiming the move was part of a plan coordinated between the Department of State Services and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission. He made the accusation while speaking during an interview on BBC Pidgin, where he described the incident as an attempted unlawful arrest.

According to El-Rufai, the encounter occurred at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport shortly after he returned from Cairo. He claimed his international passport was taken by operatives and alleged that a large security presence was deployed to carry out the action. He further stated that the intention was to detain him and subsequently transfer him into the custody of anti-corruption authorities.

Providing his version of events, the former governor said dozens of security personnel were involved and insisted they did not present any legal warrant authorizing his arrest. He characterized the situation as an attempt to forcibly detain him rather than a lawful enforcement procedure, suggesting the operation was orchestrated in advance.

The development drew reactions from prominent political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who publicly criticized the handling of the situation. During a visit to El-Rufai’s residence in Abuja, Atiku argued that any investigation involving a former public official should follow due process and respect established legal norms.

He stressed that the proper course of action would have been to formally invite El-Rufai instead of attempting to detain him in a manner that could be seen as humiliating. Atiku also noted that El-Rufai had previously served the country in key leadership roles, including as a minister and governor, and deserved to be treated with fairness and dignity under the law.

The former vice president warned that such incidents risk undermining confidence in democratic institutions, emphasizing that adherence to the rule of law is essential for maintaining public trust. He expressed solidarity with El-Rufai and reaffirmed his support for the protection of the rights of all Nigerian citizens.

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