(DDM) – Former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has publicly criticised security agencies over reports that they attempted to arrest former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai upon his arrival in Abuja.
DDM reports that the development has stirred debate about due process, civil liberties, and the conduct of security operatives at Nigeria’s international gateways.
Sowore reacted after reports emerged that security personnel confronted El-Rufai at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on Thursday.
He used his verified account on X to demand the immediate return of the former governor’s passport.
He described the reported conduct of the operatives as harassment and labelled the situation deeply troubling for democratic accountability.
Sowore argued that security institutions must always operate within constitutional limits regardless of the individuals involved.
Media reports said El-Rufai arrived in Abuja aboard a flight operated by EgyptAir from Cairo.
Accounts circulating online claimed that security officers approached him shortly after landing.
Members of his legal team alleged that operatives linked to the Department of State Services tried to detain him without presenting formal documentation.
They also alleged that officers took possession of his international passport during the encounter.
The claims quickly spread across political circles and triggered arguments about legality and proportionality.
Observers noted that airport confrontations involving senior political figures often generate public suspicion.
Supporters of El-Rufai insisted that authorities should follow transparent legal procedures when inviting citizens for questioning.
Critics, however, argued that no public official should receive special treatment before the law.
El-Rufai’s lawyers maintained that he had already shown willingness to cooperate with investigators.
They said he planned to honour an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on a scheduled date.
They added that he never resisted lawful engagement with authorities.
Political commentators said the episode reflects growing tension between opposition figures and federal institutions.
Some analysts warned that dramatic airport incidents can damage Nigeria’s democratic image internationally.
Others said firm law enforcement remains necessary if done within legal boundaries.
Security agencies have not released an official statement directly addressing the allegations.
The absence of a formal response has left room for speculation across social and political platforms.
Civil society voices have called for clarity to prevent misinformation and political escalation.
Legal experts emphasised that passport seizure typically requires clear legal justification.
They warned that irregular enforcement could invite court challenges.
As reactions continue, many Nigerians watch closely to see whether authorities will clarify what truly happened.
The incident has now joined a list of politically sensitive encounters shaping early conversations ahead of the 2027 elections.
