Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is expected to return to Nigeria on or before Friday, February 13, 2026, ahead of his scheduled appearance at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) office in Abuja.
Sources familiar with the development disclosed that El-Rufai has officially informed the anti-graft agency of his readiness to honour their invitation. He is expected to report at the EFCC headquarters by 10 a.m. on Monday, February 16.
El-Rufai, who travelled abroad on November 30, 2025, reportedly received the EFCC’s invitation letter at his residence in December, triggering widespread speculation that he could face arrest immediately upon his return. His absence at the time delayed the meeting, but arrangements have now been concluded for his appearance.
The EFCC invitation is connected to ongoing investigations into alleged financial improprieties during his tenure as governor of Kaduna State. His successor, Governor Uba Sani, had in March 2024 initiated a probe into the previous administration’s activities, a move that later resulted in formal investigations by both the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
El-Rufai has consistently denied all allegations, describing the investigations as politically motivated. He has maintained that he committed no wrongdoing and has accused the federal government of targeting him due to his growing opposition stance.
Speaking during an interview with BBC Hausa on Wednesday, February 11, El-Rufai said he was prepared for possible arrest, claiming that political pressure was being mounted against members of the opposition. He further alleged that some of his associates had already been detained.
The former governor also intensified his criticism of President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that he never enjoyed a personal relationship with the president. According to him, their political alignment never translated into friendship, unlike his close ties with former President Muhammadu Buhari.
El-Rufai’s remarks come amid rising political tension ahead of the 2027 general elections, with opposition figures accusing the ruling party of using state institutions to suppress dissent.
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