Vanessa 
Bello El-Rufai, a member of the House of Representatives and son of ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has admitted he was naive for criticising former President Goodluck Jonathan. He said his youthful ignorance made him blind to the achievements of Jonathan’s administration.
The lawmaker, who represents Kaduna North Federal Constituency under the APC, revealed that his perspective changed after a conversation with his father.
“I visited my father after I became a lawmaker. He was dressed casually, so I asked where he was going. When he said he was off to visit President Jonathan, I paused,” Bello recalled.
In the past, he had been an outspoken critic of the former president. However, witnessing his father’s willingness to consult Jonathan changed his mindset. He admitted that he had underestimated the value of governance under Jonathan.
“I told my father to please apologise to him on my behalf. I’m wiser now,” he added.
El-Rufai also commended Jonathan for conceding defeat in 2015. According to him, it takes rare courage—especially in African politics—for a sitting president to step down after losing an election.
Bello Opposes Weak Electoral Reforms
Shifting focus to electoral reforms, the APC lawmaker noted that progress had been made. He praised the electronic transmission of results but warned against any amendment that could weaken the process.
“If there’s truth in the rumour about allowing voting without a voter’s card, I’ll vote against it,” he stated.
Furthermore, he called for stronger reforms that will enhance electoral credibility and public trust.
