₦432bn probe: EFCC prolongs El-Rufai’s detention as counsel seeks bail

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai spent a second night in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday, as his lawyer, A.U. Mustapha (SAN), pressed for his release on bail.

There are indications that the EFCC may seek a remand order to extend his detention to allow investigators more time to question him.

El-Rufai arrived at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Monday around 10 a.m. for questioning in connection with an alleged ₦432 billion corruption probe, but was kept in custody as investigators continued their inquiries.

An EFCC source, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the commission was considering obtaining a remand order after the 48-hour period allowed by law to ensure investigators could complete their questioning. The source emphasized that claims circulating on social media about his release were false.

“He remains with us and will continue to do so while investigators consider requesting a remand order. They need time to address issues arising from his eight-year tenure as governor of Kaduna State,” the source said.

El-Rufai’s lawyer, Mustapha, confirmed in a telephone conversation that his client was cooperating fully with investigators and described him as a responsible citizen who is not a flight risk.

“Mr. El-Rufai honoured the EFCC’s invitation voluntarily and is cooperating to the best of his ability. We trust that the EFCC, given its integrity, will consider granting him bail, as he is presumed innocent and will comply with any conditions,” Mustapha said.

He declined to comment on the specific allegations, noting that only the EFCC could provide details.

The allegations stem from a report by a legislative committee chaired by Henry Zacharia, which claimed that several loans during El-Rufai’s administration were misused. The report, presented by Speaker Yusuf Dahiru Leman, alleged that about ₦423 billion was misappropriated and recommended investigation and prosecution of El-Rufai and some former cabinet members for abuse of office, diversion of public funds, money laundering, irregular contract awards, and reckless borrowing.

El-Rufai has denied all allegations, calling the investigation politically motivated, and stated that loans during his tenure were properly used for infrastructure, education, healthcare, and security.

An EFCC source noted that the commission has been investigating the matter for about a year, adding that suspects are typically invited after investigations reach an advanced stage.

Separately, the Department of State Services (DSS) has filed criminal charges against El-Rufai at the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged unlawful interception of the National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu’s phone communications. The three-count charge, filed under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, and the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003, alleges that El-Rufai admitted during a February 13, 2026, TV interview that he and associates unlawfully intercepted Ribadu’s communications.

The charges also claim he failed to report knowledge of the interception and allegedly used technical equipment in a manner that compromised public safety and national security. El-Rufai is yet to be arraigned.