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Nasir El-Rufai Alleges Nuhu Ribadu’s Involvement in Airport Arrest Attempt
Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has publicly accused the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, of orchestrating an attempt to detain him at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. This incident occurred shortly after El-Rufai returned from a trip to Cairo, Egypt.
Details of the Airport Incident
During a private meeting with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on the evening of February 12, El-Rufai revealed that operatives from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), confronted him at the airport and tried to take him into custody. Notably, El-Rufai clarified that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was not involved in this operation.
El-Rufai stated, “It became clear that the ICPC enlisted the DSS to forcibly detain me. I have never been summoned by the ICPC. We now understand that the ICPC, not the EFCC, is responsible for this action, and the ICPC chairman is acting under direct orders from Nuhu Ribadu.”
El-Rufai Questions Legitimacy of the Arrest Attempt
The former governor emphasized that he had not received any official invitation or notice from the ICPC prior to the incident, raising concerns about the legality and motivation behind the attempted arrest. This event has sparked discussions about the use of security agencies in political matters, especially as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.
Atiku Abubakar Calls for Opposition Unity
In response to El-Rufai’s account, Atiku Abubakar expressed his solidarity and concern. He underscored the importance of opposition parties uniting to present a formidable challenge in the upcoming elections. “We must unite to build a strong opposition because President Tinubu is intent on transforming Nigeria into a one-party state,” Atiku warned.
Context: Rising Political Tensions Ahead of 2027 Elections
This incident unfolds amid escalating political rivalries and maneuvering as key players prepare for the 2027 electoral cycle. Analysts note that such confrontations may reflect deeper struggles within Nigeria’s political landscape, where security agencies are increasingly perceived as tools for political leverage.
Recent reports indicate that political arrests and intimidation tactics have surged by over 30% in the past year, highlighting growing concerns about democratic processes in Nigeria. Similar cases in other states have also raised alarms about the impartiality of anti-corruption agencies.
