El-Rufai's Son Declares Readiness to Resign Over Father's APC Directive
Hon Bello El-Rufai, the lawmaker representing Kaduna North in the House of Representatives, has made a bold statement regarding his political allegiance, vowing to resign from his seat if his father, former Kaduna State governor and FCT minister Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, asks him to leave the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This declaration was shared via his X handle on Saturday, February 14, 2026, sparking widespread reactions and highlighting the complex dynamics of loyalty and pressure in Nigerian politics.
Record-Breaking Electoral Achievement and Mandate Assertion
In his post, Bello El-Rufai emphasized his significant electoral success, claiming a record by being the first candidate to win all 12 Wards in the Kaduna North constituency. He stated, "El-Rufai's son sets a record by being the first candidate to win all 12 Wards in Kaduna North." This achievement underscores his strong connection with his constituents, as he further noted, "My people adore me!" He expressed gratitude to the APC for providing opportunities, including interactions with esteemed public servants like Governor Cardoso, and reaffirmed his commitment to his mandate.
Loyalty to Father and Respect for Governor Sani
Bello El-Rufai articulated a nuanced position of loyalty, declaring that while he would never publicly oppose Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State or plan his demise, he remains steadfast in his support for his father. He stated, "The greatest honour is being Mallam's son. And I dare anyone to try to call him out. But I will never publicly go against the Governor, and I will not plan his demise. It is called honour." This statement reflects the delicate balance many politicians face between family ties and official duties.
Public Reactions and Political Commentary
The announcement has elicited diverse responses from Nigerians on social media, with many praising his sense of honour and maturity. User @deezeerhh commented, "This is what honour looks like and standing by your father while respecting your governor shows maturity. The mandate of 51,052 people is not something anyone can casually overturn. Leadership with loyalty is rare." Others, like @UmarVacho, highlighted his importance to Kaduna, suggesting that losing him would be detrimental to the region. Meanwhile, some, including @MrIgwe8 and @khalifapa6312, encouraged him to consider joining alternative parties like the ADC, citing dissatisfaction with the APC's performance nationally.
Broader Context: El-Rufai's Arrest Allegations
This development comes amid ongoing controversies involving Nasir El-Rufai, who recently alleged that NSA Nuhu Ribadu ordered his arrest at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The former governor claimed that tapped phone communications revealed directives for his detention, raising concerns over national security and accountability. These events add layers to the political tensions within the APC and the broader Nigerian political landscape.
Implications for APC and Kaduna Politics
Bello El-Rufai's stance could have significant implications for the APC's cohesion in Kaduna State and beyond. His threat to resign if pressured to leave the party underscores internal rifts and the influence of familial loyalties in political decision-making. As a lawmaker with a proven electoral record, his potential departure might impact the party's strength in the region, especially given his claim of widespread constituent support.
In summary, Hon Bello El-Rufai's declaration highlights the intersection of personal loyalty, political mandate, and party allegiance in Nigeria's dynamic political environment. His readiness to step down over his father's wishes, coupled with his electoral achievements, paints a picture of a politician navigating complex pressures while asserting his independence and commitment to his people.
