STATEMENT ON THE ILLEGAL ATTEMPT TO ARREST MALAM NASIR AHMAD EL-RUFAI
Malam Nasir El-Rufai’s legal team unequivocally condemns the illegal attempt to arrest him by security officials this afternoon upon his arrival in Abuja via EgyptAir flight MS 877 from Cairo.
They described the action as a blatant violation of constitutional rights, an abuse of executive power, and a clear disregard for the rule of law.
In a press statement issued by Ubong Esop Akpan, counsel to Malam Nasir El-Rufai, it was stated that an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was delivered to Malam El-Rufai’s residence while he was abroad. This makes any demand for his immediate attendance illogical and impractical, as it assumes compliance from someone outside the jurisdiction without considering logistical issues or legal fairness.
Since December 2025, we have been in formal communication with the EFCC, assuring compliance upon his return. Yesterday, we explicitly informed them that he would voluntarily appear at their office by 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026, including the specific time and location. The decision to arrest him despite this clear commitment exemplifies arbitrary conduct and damages procedural integrity.
Upon his arrival, security agents from the Department of State Services tried to arrest Malam El-Rufai without presenting any warrant or formal invitation. When he asked to see the invitation letter—a basic right of citizens—none was produced: no document, no signed directive, no lawful process. Instead, officers seized his international passport, an act amounting to illegal confiscation of private property by agents acting without authority.
This illegal conduct was opposed by ordinary Nigerians present at the airport, who loudly insisted that any arrest must follow lawful procedures. Their vocal opposition highlighted the citizens’ firm commitment to the rule of law despite the disregard shown by state officials.
No government agency has the authority to detain citizens without proper legal procedures. All public institutions and officials are bound by Nigeria’s constitution, which requires adherence to legal protocols.
This failed arrest violates several constitutional rights, including:
– Section 35: Right to personal liberty, which requires lawful procedures and judicial oversight.
– Section 36: Right to a fair hearing.
– Section 34(1)(a): Protection from mistreatment during arrest.
– Section 41: Right to freedom of movement.
– Section 44: Right to own property, including his passport.
Despite prior intelligence indicating plans for this arrest, Malam El-Rufai returned after medical treatment abroad and openly declared his willingness to cooperate with legitimate investigations. His interception at the airport is a severe abuse of power.
We call for the immediate halt of all unlawful attempts to detain Malam El-Rufai, the return of his passport, and a formal apology for this serious violation of his rights.
PUBLIC STATEMENT:
1. MALAM NASIR AHMAD EL-RUFAI WILL NEVER evade law enforcement by fleeing.
2. HE WILL, WITHOUT CONDITIONS, respond to all legitimate law enforcement summons.
Legal action will be pursued against those responsible for this unconstitutional conduct. We will use all legal avenues to ensure accountability and uphold the rule of law.
