By Emmanuel Kwada
Hon. Bello El-Rufai, the representative for Kaduna North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has sparked speculation about his political future after suggesting he may not run for office again in the 2027 general elections.
The statement came in response to a heartfelt message from a supporter, Mr. Hassan Andy, who expressed unwavering commitment to voting for him despite no longer residing in Kaduna North Local Government.
Mr. Andy, a dedicated supporter, took to social media to praise Hon. Bello’s contributions to the constituency. “Sadly, I’m no longer a Kaduna North LG resident now, but my polling unit is there, and I’ll never change it. Come 2027, I’ll go there and vote for you again because we know people are benefiting from you. Jazakallah khairan,” he wrote on X on July 3, 2025.
In a humble and reflective response, Hon. Bello expressed gratitude but hinted at uncertainty about his political plans. “I’m truly grateful. But I might not run. Allah ya zaba mana mafi alheri,” he replied, invoking a prayer for divine guidance in choosing the best path.
Sadly, I’m no longer a Kaduna North LG resident now, but my polling unit is there, and I’ll never change it. Come 2027, I’ll go there and vote for you again because we know people are benefiting from you. Jazakallah khairan
Bello El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, secured the Kaduna North Federal Constituency seat in the 2023 elections, winning with 51,052 votes as announced by Prof. Mohammed Magaji Garba, the Returning Officer for the constituency.
Since assuming office, he has been recognized for his engagement with constituents, though his tenure has not been without controversy, including a 2020 incident where he issued an apology for inflammatory comments made on social media.
I’m truly grateful. But I might not run. Allah ya zaba mana mafi alheri
The lawmaker’s cryptic remark about not running again has raised questions among political observers and constituents, especially given his family’s prominent role in Nigerian politics.
His father, Nasir El-Rufai, a former governor of Kaduna State and a key figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) before his defection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in March 2025, has been vocal about his own political ambitions and criticisms of the current administration.
While Hon. Bello did not elaborate on his reasons for considering stepping back, his statement has fueled discussions about the political dynamics in Kaduna North and the broader state ahead of the 2027 elections.
Supporters like Mr. Andy highlight the impact of his representation, pointing to benefits felt by the constituency. However, with Bello’s potential exit, the political landscape in Kaduna North could see new contenders vying for the seat.
As the 2027 elections approach, all eyes will be on Hon. Bello El-Rufai to see whether he reconsiders his stance or paves the way for fresh leadership in Kaduna North. For now, his supporters remain hopeful, with many echoing Mr. Andy’s sentiment of gratitude and loyalty.
