Former Kaduna State GovernorNasir El-Rufai appeared at the Abuja headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to address allegations of multi-billion naira fraud and corruption linked to his time in office.

His arrival on Monday was marked by tension, as security operatives reportedly blocked members of his entourage and dispersed supporters gathered outside the premises with tear gas.

Supporters near the EFCC complex chanted slogans and displayed placards declaring, “El-Rufai is a citizen, not a subject.”

They accused security agents of selectively dispersing their group while allowing anti-El-Rufai demonstrators to assemble nearby.

Opposing protesters carried banners urging him to answer the allegations, insisting the law should take its course.

The EFCC appearance followed an earlier airport incident at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, where he allegedly avoided arrest by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) after returning from Cairo.

His media aide stated that El-Rufai declined to comply without formal documentation, leading to the temporary seizure of his passport.

Shortly after, he publicly accused National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu of orchestrating what he described as “executive overreach.”

The DSS has since filed a three-count charge against him at the Federal High Court in Abuja, alleging cybercrimes and violations of the Nigerian Communications Act.

The charges reportedly stem from comments made during an appearance on Arise TV’s “Prime Time,” where he allegedly admitted to intercepting communications involving Ribadu — an offense cited under the Cybercrimes Amendment Act, 2024.

At the state level, his successor Uba Sani initiated a probe into his administration, including allegations surrounding N432 billion in financial dealings.

Civil society groups protested at the Kaduna State House of Assembly demanding transparency and updates on the investigation.

Meanwhile, the Mega National Movement for Good Governance rallied at the EFCC headquarters, emphasizing due process and cautioning against politicizing the matter.

El-Rufai, now associated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has denied all allegations, insisting the investigations are politically motivated.

He has intensified criticism of President Bola Tinubu and members of the ruling party, framing the unfolding legal battles as part of a broader political conflict.