El-Rufai’s Son Declares Loyalty to APC, Affirms Respect for Tinubu Amid Political Realignments
Honourable Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, a member of Nigeria’s House of Representatives representing Kaduna North Federal Constituency, has reaffirmed his commitment to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that he will remain loyal to the party despite political differences involving his father.
Bello, who is the son of former Kaduna State governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, made the declaration through a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account. His statement came in response to criticism from social media users who questioned his political stance following his father’s reported association with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The lawmaker stressed that while he holds deep personal affection for his father, he also maintains respect for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the APC. He noted that his political decisions would continue to be guided by his principles and commitment to the party under which he was elected.
“I love my father. I respect Asiwaju. I will never do anything against my party’s interest as long as I am a member,” Bello wrote. “But I will never compromise my principles.”
He further emphasised that his loyalty is anchored in both personal conviction and his oath of office. According to him, his responsibility is first to God, his constituents in Kaduna North, and the legal and moral commitments he undertook upon assuming office.
“After all, God is bigger than PMB, Asiwaju, Mallam, and Buhari,” he added. “It is God and Kaduna North who will judge me. My oath was with the Qur’an, the Constitution, and the APC Constitution.”
Bello’s comments reflect ongoing political discussions in Nigeria as alliances and party affiliations continue to evolve ahead of future elections. His father, Nasir El-Rufai, a prominent political figure and former governor of Kaduna State, has been associated with political movements outside the APC in recent months, prompting speculation about potential shifts in alignment among key political actors.
Despite such speculation, the younger El-Rufai made it clear that his political path remains separate and firmly rooted in the APC. He insisted that he would not take any actions that could undermine the party’s interests while he remains a member.
The lawmaker also addressed critics who questioned his independence or accused him of attempting to balance loyalties between different political interests. In his response, he maintained that he would continue to defend his position and political integrity whenever challenged.
Observers note that Bello’s public declaration highlights the complex nature of political affiliations within Nigeria, where family members and allies sometimes operate within different parties while maintaining personal relationships. Such dynamics have become increasingly visible as political parties prepare for future electoral contests and realignments.
The situation also underscores the broader conversation around generational politics and individual agency within political families. Analysts say younger politicians are increasingly seeking to establish distinct identities separate from established political figures, even when they share familial ties.
For Bello El-Rufai, the statement appears aimed at dispelling any uncertainty about his allegiance while reinforcing his commitment to representing his constituency under the platform of the APC. His remarks signal a continued alignment with the ruling party and support for its leadership, including President Tinubu.
As Nigeria’s political landscape gradually shifts in anticipation of future elections, declarations of loyalty and clarity of affiliation from elected officials are likely to remain central to public discourse.