According to Premium Times, security agents attempted to intercept and arrest Nasir El-Rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The incident occurred as the former governor was preparing to board a flight, leading to a tense standoff between his aides and the security personnel on site.
In an update published by his media team, it was alleged that the agents attempted to seize El-Rufai’s passport without a valid warrant. The former governor has since spoken out, describing the incident as an example of “executive overreach” and a threat to the democratic rights of citizens who hold opposing views to the current administration.
The situation has sparked widespread debate across the political spectrum, with allies of the former governor claiming the move was politically motivated. Conversely, security sources have remained tight-lipped about the specific reasons for the attempted detention, though rumors of investigations into past administrative actions continue to circulate.
Vanguard and The Sun also covered the confrontation at the airport. Vanguard noted that “the heavy security presence caused a temporary stir at the terminal,” while The Sun featured a quote from an aide saying, “we will not allow the rule of law to be trampled upon by faceless agents.”
Echotitbits take: This incident highlights the deepening friction between the federal government and influential political figures ahead of the 2027 election cycle. It raises concerns about the use of state apparatus for political intimidation. Keep an eye on the Department of State Services (DSS) for an official statement, as this could lead to a protracted legal battle.
Source: BBC – https://www.bbc.com/pidgin/articles/cn87g9n875jo, February 13, 2026
Photo credit: BBC
