Bello El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and a member of the House of Representatives, has thanked former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi for repeatedly checking on his father during his detention.
Bello made the remarks in an interview with Ibrahim Ismaila Ahmed, which was uploaded on Monday and subsequently went viral.
He said Obi’s regular calls had taught him an important personal lesson, particularly because he had previously been critical of the former governor.
Nasir El-Rufai has been in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) since February 18, 2026, over an ongoing investigation.
Speaking about politicians and other individuals who had contacted the family, Bello expressed appreciation to several prominent figures, including Waziri Adamawa, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Bola Tinubu and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
He, however, singled out Obi for repeatedly calling to ask about his father’s wellbeing.
According to Bello, Obi’s gesture changed his perspective, saying it was a lesson in life for him at the age of 38.
Bello said, “Particularly Governor Peter Obi, he kept calling. He would just call me to see how things were going. For me, at 38 years old, it’s a lesson in life.
“I used to be critical of Governor Peter Obi, but this has been a lesson for me.”
Obi had previously criticised El-Rufai’s prolonged detention, describing it as political persecution.
Bello also disclosed that his father had been using his time in detention to read books, study the Qur’an and reflect on his life and work.
He said the period had also given the former governor an opportunity to reflect, make plans and reassess some aspects of his approach to life and public service.
El-Rufai’s continued detention has attracted public attention, with opposition figures and other political actors calling for his release or questioning the circumstances surrounding his continued custody.
Tags
National News