Bello El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has expressed appreciation to Peter Obi for repeatedly checking on his father while he remained in detention.
Bello, who is a member of the House of Representatives, spoke during an interview with Ibrahim Ismaila Ahmed, which was uploaded on Monday and subsequently gained attention online.
He said several political figures had reached out to the family during the period, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso.
However, Bello singled out Obi for his repeated calls to check on his father’s wellbeing.
“Particularly Governor Peter Obi, you know, he kept calling… like he would just call me just to see how,” Bello said.
According to him, Obi’s gesture was particularly significant because he had previously been critical of the former Anambra State governor.
“For me at 38 years old, it’s a lesson in life,” he added.
Bello said the experience had taught him that personal relationships and acts of kindness could transcend political differences.
Nasir El-Rufai has been in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission since February 18, 2026, amid an ongoing investigation.
Bello also disclosed that his father had used his time in detention to read books, study the Qur’an and reflect on his years in public service.
He said the former governor was using the period of isolation to reflect, plan and consider areas where he could improve his approach.
Obi had previously criticised El-Rufai’s prolonged detention, describing it as political persecution, according to Punch.
The detention has continued to attract reactions from political figures and groups, with some calling for El-Rufai’s release and others questioning the circumstances surrounding his continued detention.
