Bashir El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has disclosed what his father told him during a recent visit to his detention facility.
Bashir made the revelation in a post shared on his official X handle on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, where he reflected on his encounter with the former governor and described his father’s attitude despite being in detention.
According to Bashir, his visits to his father often leave him surprised by the former governor’s resilience and positive spirit. He explained that, rather than appearing overwhelmed by his circumstances, El-Rufai continues to maintain his usual sense of humour and optimism.
Bashir said his father’s composure has repeatedly made him realise that those outside the detention facility may be more troubled by the situation than the person directly experiencing it.
He noted that during his latest visit, he asked the former governor whether he still believed that the sacrifices he had made were worth it.
Bashir disclosed that his father responded to the question without hesitation, affirming that he still believed the sacrifice was worthwhile.
The younger El-Rufai said the response further demonstrated his father’s strength of character and determination in the face of difficult circumstances.
Sharing details of the encounter, Bashir wrote: “When I visit my father, I always leave truly amazed by how it is we on the outside that are bothered. His resilience, uplifting spirit and his usual banter hits in a profound way. I asked whether he still believes this sacrifice was worth it. Without hesitation, he said yes.”
The statement has drawn attention because of the insight it provides into the former Kaduna governor’s state of mind while in detention.
Bashir’s account suggests that despite the challenges surrounding his father’s detention, El-Rufai remains confident in his decisions and continues to maintain a positive outlook.
The former governor has remained a prominent political figure in Nigeria, particularly within discussions surrounding Kaduna State and national politics.
Bashir’s revelation also highlights the emotional impact of the situation on members of the former governor’s family, while showing that El-Rufai’s personal disposition has remained largely resilient.
For Bashir, each visit appears to leave a lasting impression, particularly because he expects to find his father affected by the circumstances but instead encounters someone who remains composed, hopeful and willing to joke.
His latest account therefore presents a picture of Nasir El-Rufai as a man who, despite being detained, remains convinced that the sacrifices associated with his current situation are justified.
The disclosure has since generated interest among supporters, political observers and members of the public following Bashir’s decision to share the private conversation publicly.
