Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, was detained on Monday night at the Abuja headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after several hours of questioning over an alleged N432 billion corruption case.
Sources within the EFCC said El-Rufai arrived at the commission’s office in Jabi around 10am following an invitation. He was questioned over allegations linked to a 2024 report by the Kaduna State House of Assembly. The report accused his administration of misusing loans, failing to follow due process in awarding contracts, and leaving the state heavily indebted.
A senior EFCC official said the agency had been investigating him for about a year and does not invite suspects until investigations are well advanced. As of Monday night, the former governor was still in custody.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed that El-Rufai honoured the invitation but did not give further details.
The allegations stem from a report presented last year by an ad hoc committee of the Kaduna State House of Assembly. The committee claimed that many loans taken during El-Rufai’s eight years in office were not used for their intended purposes. Lawmakers alleged that about N423 billion was siphoned, leaving the state with serious financial challenges.
The committee recommended that El-Rufai and some former cabinet members be investigated and prosecuted for alleged abuse of office, contract irregularities, money laundering and reckless borrowing. The Assembly later petitioned the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission to investigate.
El-Rufai has denied the allegations, insisting that all loans obtained during his tenure were properly approved and used for infrastructure, education, healthcare and security projects. He has described the probe as politically motivated.
Phone interception charges
While he was being questioned over financial matters, the Federal Government also filed criminal charges against him at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The charges relate to the alleged unlawful interception of phone communications belonging to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
The three-count charge was filed under the Cybercrimes Amendment Act, 2024, and the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003. The government alleged that El-Rufai admitted during a television interview on February 13, 2026, that he and others intercepted Ribadu’s phone calls.
During the interview on Arise TV, El-Rufai claimed he learned of an alleged plan to arrest him through a leaked conversation from the NSA’s phone. He suggested that someone had tapped the phone and informed him.
The government said the alleged actions could threaten national security and create fear among the public. No date has yet been fixed for his court appearance.
In Nigeria, unauthorised phone interception is a serious offence and can attract prison terms and fines under existing laws.
DSS reopens Dadiyata case
In a separate development, the Department of State Services has reopened investigations into the 2019 disappearance of Abubakar Idris, also known as Dadiyata, a university lecturer who went missing in Kaduna.
Security sources said the DSS is investigating El-Rufai and his two sons in connection with the case. His passport was reportedly seized at the Abuja airport to prevent him from travelling while investigations continue.
Another source said investigators are reviewing social media posts made by his sons around the time of Dadiyata’s disappearance. El-Rufai has repeatedly denied any involvement and said he did not know the missing lecturer personally.
Protests in Abuja and Kaduna
The developments sparked protests in Abuja and Kaduna.
In Abuja, a group known as the Mega National Movement for Good Governance gathered at the EFCC headquarters, calling for a thorough investigation and accountability. They carried placards urging El-Rufai to answer the allegations.
At the same time, his supporters also gathered near the commission, chanting solidarity songs and expressing support for him.
In Kaduna, civil society groups marched to the State House of Assembly, asking lawmakers to provide updates on the probe and ensure justice is served.
Political reactions
Opposition figures have reacted differently to the situation. Some questioned the timing of the charges, especially as the 2027 elections approach. Others said the government is using legal means to address serious allegations.
President Bola Tinubu, during a visit to Adamawa State, praised National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, describing him as committed and courageous in tackling security challenges.
The unfolding events have created one of the most significant political and legal battles involving a former governor in recent years. El-Rufai now faces investigations over alleged financial misconduct, cybercrime charges and renewed scrutiny over a past disappearance case.
The final outcome will depend on the legal process as the cases move forward.
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