Bello El-Rufai, a federal lawmaker representing Kaduna North and son of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, has firmly denied speculation about his potential defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections. His response follows a social media prompt urging him to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
El-Rufai dismissed the suggestion, emphasizing that his political choices are not dictated by online commentary. He anchored his stance in his electoral mandate, referencing his victory in the 2023 House of Representatives election where he secured 51,052 votes, defeating the PDP candidate Samaila, who polled 34,808 votes. He noted a record by winning all 12 wards in Kaduna North. “The mandate belongs to the 51,052 people who elected me, not to voices on social media,” he stated.
He specified that only one scenario would trigger his departure from the APC: a direct instruction from his father, Nasir El-Rufai, whom he repeatedly addresses as “Mallam.” “If Mallam asks me to leave the APC, I’ll resign the seat tonight. I can be non-partisan. My people adore me,” El-Rufai said. He further challenged the social media user, offering a financial incentive: “I’ll send 10 million to you tonight if you can convince the 51,052 people that have me this mandate. Do you have an app to confirm?”
While underscoring profound respect for his father, El-Rufai reaffirmed his loyalty to Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, describing him as his “boss,” and categorically ruled out any disloyalty. He highlighted a recent symbolic action: after attending a public event with his father, he proceeded directly to a Kaduna APC caucus meeting alongside the Speaker and Governor Sani, which he deemed intentional.
El-Rufai also pointed to opportunities within the APC, citing collaborations with senior figures like Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Olayemi Cardoso. On political ethics, he declared: “I will never publicly go against governor and I will not plan his demise. It is called honour.”
This public affirmation signals El-Rufai’s continued alignment with the APC in Kaduna North, countering rumors as the party gears up for the 2027 electoral cycle. His stance reflects a blend of personal mandate, familial influence, and party fidelity, which may shape local political dynamics in the state.
