Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has raised concerns over what he described as a renewed attempt to falsely implicate him in criminal activities, alleging a coordinated effort to damage his reputation and prolong his detention.
In a statement released on Sunday through his Media Adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, El-Rufai said recent events suggest deliberate moves aimed at discrediting him.
He alleged that on February 12, 2026, he was targeted for arrest upon his arrival at Abuja airport from Cairo. According to him, he later complied with an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on February 16, after which he was taken into custody.
He further stated that he was moved to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission on February 18.
The former governor’s latest claims are linked to a report alleging that armed men attacked the home of a key witness in an ongoing case at the Kaduna State High Court. The report suggested that the witness, identified as Mohammed Umar Karage, believed the attack may be connected to his involvement in the case and an attempt to silence him.
However, El-Rufai’s media team strongly denied any involvement in the incident, describing the claims as false and damaging.
They argued that the narrative was intended to justify his continued detention and influence public perception against him, especially as he pursues bail.
Reaffirming his innocence, El-Rufai maintained that he has no connection to the alleged attack and insisted he is a law-abiding citizen.
His team also said they have instructed lawyers to take legal action against the publication responsible for the report, accusing it of defamation.
The statement further alleged that the former governor has faced sustained public attacks and negative narratives since 2023, which they claim are politically motivated.
They called for respect for due process and urged authorities to ensure his rights are protected, insisting that any violations should be immediately corrected.
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