The Department of State Services (DSS), in collaboration with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), and the Federal Ministry of Aviation, has concluded a joint investigation into a serious security breach that occurred at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja, on February 12, 2026.
The incident involved compromised security protocols during the arrival of former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, from Cairo, Egypt. Following thorough inquiries, five security operatives from various agencies have been detained for their alleged roles in the breach.
The detained individuals are:
Ayuba Yakubu (Assistant Superintendent of Police, Nigeria Police Force)
Murtala Inuwa (Department of State Services)
Najeeb Murtala (Assistant Superintendent of Immigration, Nigeria Immigration Service)
Musa Adamu (Aviation Security - AVSEC)
Salihu Victor (Aviation Security - AVSEC)
The operatives have confessed to receiving bribes to facilitate unauthorized entry into restricted areas of the airport and to obstruct lawful security operations in an unprecedented manner.
This compromise undermined standard protocols and hindered official procedures at the facility.
The suspects have been handed over to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for prosecution.
The relevant authorities are committed to ensuring full accountability and upholding the integrity of Nigeria's security and aviation systems.
This development occurs against the backdrop of ongoing legal proceedings involving Mallam El-Rufai, including a fundamental rights suit valued at N1 billion filed by him, which has reportedly encountered procedural delays.
The DSS reaffirms its dedication to protecting national security, combating corruption, and enforcing the rule of law without fear or favor.
The agency appreciates the cooperation of partner institutions in this investigation and assures the public that such breaches will not be tolerated.