Nothing Wrong with Probing My Father’s Government, But… – El-Rufai’s Son

Bashir El-Rufai says he has no issue with investigations into his father’s administration but raises concerns over the motives behind the probe.

Bello El-Rufai, the House of Representatives member for Kaduna North Federal Constituency, stated that investigating the previous administration in Kaduna State under his father, Nasir El-Rufai, isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, he emphasized that any investigation should be carried out with fairness and transparency.

Bello expressed these views in reaction to the persistent political tensions between his father and Senator Uba Sani, the current Governor of Kaduna State.

Although recognizing the discord, the lawmaker voiced his disapproval of the conflict but admitted he was not in a position to mediate or reconcile between the two parties.

The political rivalry is especially notable given that Sani, who was once regarded as a protégé of El-Rufa’i, has now turned into his political opponent.

In an interview on the Mahangar Zamani program with BBC Hausa, Bello expressed his unease about the situation, particularly given his personal connection to both people involved.

“It is unsettling,” he commented. “I wouldn’t want to see my enemies fighting among themselves; I cherish peace.” He attributed the situation to life’s natural fluctuations, noting that “marriages can end and friendships may break apart, but it’s crucial to maintain and preserve relationships no matter what.”

Although Bello acknowledged his lack of knowledge regarding the reasons behind the rift, he expressed skepticism about any personal animosities between his father and Sani. “Neither of them mentioned anything to me about it. I just realized that things aren’t as they used to be,” he explained. He suggested that the public was blowing the issue out of proportion, likening it to a fictional rivalry, and highlighted that some people were even reaching out to him for information.

Commenting on the investigation initiated by Governor Sani’s administration into El-Rufa’i’s government activities, Bello noted that conducting a probe is not necessarily negative. “Investigations aren’t inherently bad,” he said. “However, they should be carried out with genuine intentions and not to embarrass anyone or due to personal grievances. If conducted for self-serving purposes, Allah will judge accordingly. While He may forgive your weaknesses, He won’t disregard any harm you impose on others.”

When questioned about stepping in to mediate between the two, Bello clarified that it was not within his duties. He stated, “It’s not my responsibility. My focus is on fulfilling my obligations to the people of Kaduna North. While I value peace and integrity, if I were involved in any disagreements, I’d prefer to address them privately.”

He defended his father by saying, “Politically speaking, Mallam Nasiru is unparalleled. He is solely focused on his work and remains a devoted parent—my father.” He was surprised that some people were still expecting him to comment on the conflict between Sani and his father.