El-Rufai's Arrest Attempt Sparks Political Controversy

Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, became the center of a political controversy following an attempted arrest by the Department of State Services (DSS) upon his return to Nigeria from Cairo on February 12, 2025. El-Rufai had traveled for mandatory medical treatment and was reportedly invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to appear on December 11, 2025.

His counsel, Barrister Ubong Esop Akpan, acknowledged receipt of the invitation and stated that El-Rufai would return voluntarily. However, upon arrival at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, security operatives attempted to arrest him, which he declined, insisting on proper procedure.

A crowd formed around him, effectively aborting the arrest. Akpan criticized the DSS's actions as oppressive and unlawful, alleging that El-Rufai's passport was seized during the confrontation.

The incident has sparked intense debate regarding the treatment of opposition figures under the Tinubu administration.