Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai was detained late into the night on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Jabi, Abuja, following several hours of intense interrogation over an alleged N432 billion corruption probe.
Multiple credible sources within the anti-graft agency confirmed to DDNewsOnline that El-Rufai, who arrived at the EFCC complex around 10:00 a.m. in response to an official invitation, was grilled extensively over findings contained in the 2024 report of the Kaduna State House of Assembly. The report accused his administration (2015–2023) of: Misappropriation of loans and other public funds, Gross violation of due process in contract awards, Deliberate plunging of the state into unsustainable debt and Other financial malpractices amounting to approximately N432 billion
The former governor, who recently defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), was not released after the session concluded around 11:00 p.m. He remains in custody at the EFCC facility as investigations continue.
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Additional Allegations Sources also revealed that El-Rufai is expected to face separate criminal prosecution over the alleged bugging and interception of communications belonging to the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu. The DSS had earlier seized his international passport upon arrival at the airport last week, citing concerns he might flee the country.
El-Rufai’s supporters gathered outside the EFCC headquarters late Monday night, chanting solidarity songs and calling for his release. Security was beefed up around the complex to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
This is a developing story. DDNewsOnline will provide updates as more details emerge.
By Ogungbayi Beedee Adeyemi
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