Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai on Monday arrived at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja to honour an invitation by the anti-graft agency.
His appearance is connected to ongoing investigations into allegations of financial misconduct and mismanagement of public funds during his tenure as governor between 2015 and 2023. The commission has yet to issue a detailed public statement outlining the specific charges under review.
Shortly after his arrival, supporters of the former governor gathered outside the EFCC complex, positioning themselves at a distance from the main entrance while chanting in his support and calling for due process and adherence to the rule of law. Security operatives were deployed to strategic points around the premises, with access restricted strictly to authorised personnel.
Tensions briefly escalated at the entrance gate when some supporters attempted to move closer to the facility, prompting security officials to deploy teargas to disperse the crowd. While no major injuries were reported, one supporter sustained minor injuries during the commotion.
As of press time, the situation remained tense but under control. Journalists, supporters and other observers were stationed at designated areas outside the premises, while security officials maintained order and restricted unauthorised filming within the complex.
Public reaction to the development has remained divided, with some describing the invitation as part of a legitimate anti-corruption process, while others have characterised it as politically motivated.