El-Rufai's Legal Team Condemns Alleged DSS Arrest Attempt, Outlines Next Steps
The legal representatives of Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, have issued a strong condemnation of an alleged attempt by security operatives to arrest their client upon his arrival in Nigeria on Thursday, February 12, 2026. The lawyers have disclosed their intended course of action in response to what they describe as an unlawful incident.
Alleged Confrontation at the Airport
According to a statement signed by Ubong Esop Akpan of The Chambers of Ubong Akpan, the former governor was accosted by personnel from the Department of State Services (DSS) shortly after disembarking from Egypt Air flight MS 877, which originated from Cairo. The legal team emphasized that the secret police approached El-Rufai without presenting any arrest warrant or formal invitation, thereby preventing the execution of any lawful procedure.
The lawyers alleged that this action constituted a violation of due process and legal protocols. They expressed concern over the manner in which the operatives conducted themselves, highlighting the absence of proper documentation to justify such an intervention. The statement further detailed that the incident occurred in a public setting, raising questions about the transparency and legitimacy of the security agency's operations.
Legal Response and Next Steps
In their declaration, El-Rufai's legal team outlined their planned response to the alleged arrest attempt. They intend to pursue all available legal avenues to address what they perceive as an infringement on the former governor's rights. The lawyers have vowed to challenge any further actions by the DSS that lack proper legal backing, ensuring that due process is upheld in any future engagements.
The statement also called for a thorough investigation into the conduct of the DSS operatives involved, urging relevant authorities to hold accountable those responsible for any procedural breaches. The legal team emphasized the importance of adhering to the rule of law, particularly in matters involving high-profile individuals and security operations.
Broader Implications and Reactions
This incident has sparked discussions about the relationship between security agencies and political figures in Nigeria. Observers note that such confrontations can have significant implications for governance and public trust in law enforcement institutions. The legal team's firm stance underscores a growing demand for accountability and transparency in security operations across the country.
As the situation develops, stakeholders are closely monitoring the response from both the DSS and other governmental bodies. The outcome of this case may set a precedent for how similar incidents are handled in the future, potentially influencing policies on arrest procedures and the treatment of former public officials.
