Hon. Bello El-Rufai, a member of the House of Representatives and son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has expressed regret over his past criticism of former President Goodluck Jonathan, attributing his earlier stance to youthful naivety and a limited understanding of governance.

 

Speaking on a Channels Television programme on Thursday, the lawmaker representing Kaduna North federal constituency admitted that his perspective has shifted since joining the National Assembly and experiencing firsthand the complexities of leadership and policymaking.

 

Recounting a recent interaction with his father, Bello shared how he asked him to pass along an apology to the former president. “After I became a member, I visited my dad and saw him wearing a polo shirt. I asked where he was going, and he said, ‘To see President Jonathan,’” Bello narrated. “I paused, remembering how vocal I was in criticizing Jonathan when I lacked the wisdom and depth I have now. I said, ‘Please, when you see him, tell him I am sorry. I am wiser now.’”

 

El-Rufai also commended Jonathan for his historic decision to peacefully hand over power after losing the 2015 election — a move he said demonstrated rare courage and patriotism, especially in the African context.

 

“The system is deeply flawed, but I have to acknowledge President Jonathan. It takes real strength, especially in Africa, to lose an election and willingly step down. He did that,” Bello said.

 

His remarks have sparked reflection on the challenges of governance and the importance of maturity, experience, and context in forming political judgments.