Former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai continued to be held in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday, February 18, 2026, after a permanent secretary who had offered to stand as surety withdrew his support, citing safety concerns.
El-Rufai’s extended detention comes amid high-profile corruption and security investigations that have drawn nationwide attention.
El-Rufai voluntarily presented himself at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Monday, responding to an invitation over allegations that he misappropriated more than ₦433 billion while serving as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023 and faces multiple probes, including over disputed contractual awards and loans.
A key development in the case occurred when a permanent secretary previously ready to stand surety for El-Rufai recanted, reportedly saying he could not guarantee his own safety in the politically charged environment surrounding the former governor’s detention. Sources familiar with the matter said the withdrawal was connected to “threat claims,” although specifics of the threats were not disclosed.
El-Rufai’s continued stay in EFCC custody comes as anti-graft investigators intensify questioning and consider applying to the court for a remand extension beyond the statutory 48-hour period permitted by law.
El-Rufai has maintained that he is cooperating with authorities and has insisted on his innocence as the probe unfolds, with his detention marking one of the most significant corruption investigations involving a former governor in recent years.