Political analyst Ezeocha Nze has criticized the chaotic scenes that erupted at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport when security operatives attempted to detain former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai upon his return from abroad.
Speaking on AIT, Nze described the incident as overblown and embarrassing, noting that El-Rufai’s supporters formed a human shield around him and chanted slogans of loyalty, including “He is our leader; nothing will happen.” He said, “Trying to arrest him was a drama that went too far, and we saw the shame, so to say, when his supporters started shouting… This country should be moving above that, you see, staging it to look like there’s a motive behind it.”
Nze argued that such public spectacles undermine legal processes and reinforce the perception that political figures and their supporters act above the law. He emphasized that authorities should follow proper democratic procedures, such as issuing formal invitations or warrants, to maintain public trust and prevent confrontational scenarios.
The analyst called for adherence to lawful protocols to ensure accountability and strengthen Nigeria’s governance institutions.