Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State and a prominent figure in Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has described a recent invitation by security agencies as purely political in nature.
In an interview on Arise TV’s Prime Time program on Friday evening, El-Rufai alleged that the invitation — linked to ongoing probes — is being used as leverage to compel political loyalty ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“This invitation is political. You don’t arrest without investigation. Some of my friends who were invited were cleared but still asked to join the APC and also agree on Bola Tinubu’s second tenure,” El-Rufai stated during the broadcast.
The comments come amid heightened speculation about internal rifts within the APC and preparations for the next presidential race.
El-Rufai, who played a key role in supporting Tinubu’s 2023 election victory, has grown increasingly critical of the administration in recent months, citing concerns over governance, economic policies, and what he describes as selective application of anti-corruption measures.
The former governor’s remarks follow a dramatic incident earlier this week when operatives from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) attempted to detain him upon his arrival at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
El-Rufai resisted the move, insisting on a formal invitation rather than an impromptu arrest, and his passport was reportedly seized during the encounter.
His legal team has since confirmed he intends to honor any properly documented summons voluntarily.
El-Rufai has maintained that he was out of the country when earlier invitations were issued and that he has cooperated through his lawyers.
He has also pointed fingers at other figures, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, whom he accused in related comments of orchestrating efforts to sideline influential northern politicians perceived as potential threats.
The allegations have sparked sharp reactions across Nigeria’s political landscape.
Supporters of the administration have dismissed El-Rufai’s claims as attempts to deflect from personal accountability, while critics view them as evidence of weaponized institutions to enforce party discipline and secure endorsements for Tinubu’s anticipated re-election bid.
Political analysts note that such tensions reflect broader maneuvering within the APC as the party seeks to consolidate power ahead of 2027.
El-Rufai’s public stance has fueled discussions about potential realignments, with some speculating he could play a role in opposition coalitions challenging the ruling party.
El-Rufai has not ruled out future political involvement, though he has emphasized in past interviews that his current criticisms stem from a desire to address what he sees as national challenges rather than personal ambition.
No official response has been issued yet from the presidency, the APC national leadership, or the relevant security agencies regarding the specific claims made during the Arise TV appearance.
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The situation continues to draw significant attention as Nigeria’s political temperature rises in the lead-up to future electoral contests.
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