Bello El-Rufai, federal lawmaker and son of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, has addressed speculation about a possible defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) before the 2027 general elections. Responding to a social media user urging him to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bello dismissed the idea, stressing that online pressure does not shape his political decisions.

He cited his electoral victory in Kaduna North as proof of his mandate, reminding critics that his loyalty is first to the 51,052 constituents who elected him. He also highlighted his record as the first candidate to win all 12 wards in Kaduna North, emphasizing that the mandate belongs to voters, not social media voices.

Bello stated that the only circumstance that could prompt him to leave the APC is a direct instruction from his father, whom he referred to as “Mallam.” “If Mallam asks me to leave the APC, I’ll resign the seat tonight. I can be non-Partisan. My people adore me,” he said, reaffirming his respect for his father while emphasizing loyalty to Governor Uba Sani and the Kaduna State administration.

The lawmaker also pointed to the opportunities the APC has provided, including collaboration with senior officials like Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Olayemi Cardoso. He reiterated that he would never act against the governor or plan any political disloyalty, describing his approach as a matter of honour.