Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has raised concerns over what he described as “malicious orchestrations” targeted at him, alleging that recent developments suggest an attempt to keep him in prolonged detention.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Media Adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, El-Rufai said an attempt to arrest him at the Abuja Airport on his return from Cairo on February 12, 2026, was a warning sign of a wider scheme against him.
According to the statement, the objective of the alleged plot is to ensure his continued detention through unlawful means, describing the situation as unacceptable for a citizen with a record of public service.
The former governor maintained that the rule of law must not be weaponised, insisting that legal processes should serve justice rather than be used to infringe on an individual’s right to liberty.
He argued that he is entitled to full legal protections and due process, calling for what he described as respect for his constitutional rights.
The statement recalled that El-Rufai honoured an invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on February 16, 2026, after which he was detained and later transferred to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission on February 18.
It added that he has since remained in custody and has been arraigned before two separate High Courts.
The former governor also faulted a recent media report concerning an alleged attack on a witness in his ongoing trial, describing it as misleading and capable of prejudicing ongoing proceedings.
According to him, the publication contained insinuations linking him to the incident, which he said were unfounded and damaging to his reputation.
El-Rufai insisted he has no connection to the alleged events and has instructed his lawyers to take legal action over what he termed defamatory content.
He further alleged that he has been the target of sustained attacks and negative narratives since 2023, despite what he described as his record of public service.
The statement reaffirmed his commitment to pursuing legal redress while insisting on his innocence in all allegations against him.
