The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday detained former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai after hours of interrogation over alleged financial improprieties amounting to ₦432bn.
El-Rufai arrived at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja earlier in the day in response to an invitation and was questioned over allegations arising from a 2024 report of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which accused his administration of misappropriating loans, breaching due process in contract awards and plunging the state into heavy debt between 2015 and 2023.
A senior official of the anti-graft agency said investigations into the allegations had been ongoing for several months and had reached an advanced stage before the former governor was invited.
The official said the decision to keep him in custody was to enable investigators conclude preliminary procedures and determine the next line of action.
The EFCC’s spokesperson confirmed that El-Rufai honoured the invitation but declined to comment on the details of the interrogation or whether charges would be filed immediately.
Security sources said the Department of State Services (DSS) was on standby as part of wider inter-agency coordination, adding that the agency is also reviewing related security-sensitive matters linked to the case.
The legislative report that prompted the EFCC probe recommended the investigation and prosecution of the former governor and some members of his cabinet over alleged abuse of office, diversion of public funds and violations of procurement procedures.
It also alleged that several loans obtained during the period under review were not applied to the purposes for which they were approved.
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El-Rufai has denied the allegations, describing them as politically motivated, and maintained that loans obtained during his tenure were lawfully appropriated and applied to development projects in the state.
Monday’s detention drew reactions from civil society groups and political actors in Abuja and Kaduna. While some groups called for a thorough probe and accountability, supporters of the former governor urged the authorities to ensure due process.
As of press time, El-Rufai remained in EFCC custody. Officials said further action would be determined by the outcome of ongoing investigations.
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