El-Rufai’s son reveals politicians who called over his father’s detention

The son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, has revealed some of the prominent politicians who have contacted him over his father’s detention.

Bello, who represents Kaduna North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, said former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi and Rabiu Kwankwaso were among those who called to inquire about his father.

He particularly appreciated Obi for repeatedly checking on Nasir El-Rufai, saying the former Anambra State governor’s concern was significant because Bello had previously criticised him.

“Politicians like Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Mr Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and others called me to ask about my dad,” he said.

“I would like to thank them, particularly Mr Peter Obi. He always called me to ask about my dad. And for me, at 38, it’s a lesson in life because, in the case of Obi, I used to be critical of him.”

Bello also said his father had been using his time in detention to read books, study the Quran and reflect on his experiences.

“And for Malam, he is using the time to finish books, catch up, read the Quran, so it’s also a moment for him in isolation to reflect, plan better, and tone down on things like that,” he added.

Nasir El-Rufai has been involved in multiple legal proceedings since his arrest by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission in February over allegations of financial misconduct and other offences.

The former governor was subsequently arraigned in different proceedings involving allegations including money laundering, contracts and alleged illegal interception of telephone communications.

The cases are ongoing, while El-Rufai has denied wrongdoing.