Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has issued a public alert alleging what he describes as “malicious orchestrations” targeted at him in connection with ongoing legal proceedings.
According to a statement signed by his Media Adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, El-Rufai claims that an attempt to arrest him at Abuja Airport on 12 February 2026 upon his return from Cairo marked the beginning of a series of troubling developments. He further stated that he honoured an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on 16 February 2026, after which he was detained and later transferred to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on 18 February. He added that he has since remained in detention and has been arraigned before two separate High Courts.
The statement also reacted to a publication by **The Nation newspaper dated 18 April 2026, titled “El-Rufai’s trial: Gunmen invade principal witness home.” The report claimed that Mohammed Umar Karage, a prosecution witness in a Kaduna State High Court case, reported an alleged armed invasion of his residence to the police.
El-Rufai’s media office faulted the report, describing it as containing “innuendos and suggestive imputations” linking him to alleged intimidation of witnesses in a corruption case involving land revocation and reallocation charges. It further rejected any implication that he had any connection to the reported incident, insisting that such suggestions were intended to malign his reputation and influence ongoing judicial proceedings, including his bail application.
The statement argued that the publication could prejudice public perception and undermine the integrity of court processes, adding that El-Rufai has instructed his legal team to commence defamation proceedings.
It further stated that the former governor has been subjected to what it described as a sustained campaign of vilification since 2023, while reiterating his long record of public service and contributions to national development.
El-Rufai maintained that he is a “law-abiding citizen” with no involvement in the alleged incident referenced in the publication and called for strict adherence to due process and respect for his constitutional rights.
Signed:
Muyiwa Adekeye
Media Adviser to Malam Nasir El-Rufai
19 April 2026
