El-Rufai Fears Arrest as Associates Detained

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has asserted that he expects to be arrested “any moment now” by federal authorities, citing intensifying political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections. The former APC chieftain, now affiliated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), suggested the ruling party is targeting him due to his vocal criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

In a recent interview with BBC Hausa, El-Rufai claimed that four individuals who worked closely with him during his eight-year tenure as governor have already been detained by security agencies. “For me, it’s only a matter of time—they will come for me too,” he warned, suggesting his detention is part of a broader strategy to weaken opposition voices.

El-Rufai alleged that political actors are being pressured to align with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), either by defecting or remaining within its fold. He dismissed speculation that his fallout with Tinubu was merely personal, reiterating that his previous support was based on political principles and party zoning agreements that have since been abandoned.

This development coincides with the ongoing trial of former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, who is facing charges of money laundering and abuse of office by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Malami, also a key opposition figure, has maintained his innocence, labeling the proceedings a political witch-hunt.

As the battle for 2027 takes shape, El-Rufai’s remarks signal deepening friction within the political landscape, suggesting a period of heightened confrontation between the government and its critics.