The family of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has been thrown into mourning following the death of his mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai.
The news of her passing was made public on Friday by her grandson, Bello El-Rufai, who shared the announcement on social media. According to him, Hajiya Umma died earlier in the day, although details surrounding her death were not immediately disclosed at the time of filing this report.
In his message, Bello expressed deep sorrow and urged the public to pray for the deceased. He wrote: “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. From Allah SWT we came and to Him we shall all return. I would like to inform the public of the demise of my grandmother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai who passed away a few hours ago.”
He described her as the biological mother of his father and appreciated the life she lived. He added that the family is grateful for her legacy and prayed for Allah to grant her eternal rest. He also called on well-wishers and members of the public to remember the family in prayers during this period of grief.
The late Hajiya Umma El-Rufai was regarded as the matriarch of the El-Rufai family, a household that has remained prominent in Nigeria’s political space for many years. Her son, Nasir El-Rufai, is a well-known figure in Nigerian politics, having served as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023. Before that, he held key national roles, including Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, where he oversaw major reforms in Abuja.
Her death comes at a challenging time for the family, especially given the current legal situation involving her son. Nasir El-Rufai is presently in custody following his arraignment by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
The anti-corruption agency has filed a 10-count charge against the former governor. The charges are related to alleged conversion of public property and money laundering. According to the ICPC, the case follows investigations into actions that allegedly took place during his time in public office.
El-Rufai has, however, denied all the allegations. He pleaded not guilty when he was brought before the Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna. His legal team has also challenged the charges, arguing that they lack merit.
At the last court session, which took place earlier in the week, both the defence and the prosecution presented arguments regarding his bail application. After listening to both sides, the presiding judge, Rilwanu Aikawa, adjourned the case.
The court fixed March 31 for the continuation of proceedings, particularly to rule on the bail application. Until then, El-Rufai remains in custody, a situation that has drawn attention from political observers and members of the public.
The combination of personal loss and ongoing legal battles has placed the El-Rufai family in a difficult position. While mourning the death of their matriarch, they are also dealing with a high-profile court case that could have significant implications.
In Nigeria, the passing of a family elder, especially a mother or grandmother, carries deep cultural and emotional weight. Such individuals are often seen as pillars of the family, providing guidance, support, and a sense of unity. The death of Hajiya Umma is therefore not only a personal loss but also a moment of reflection for those who knew her and the wider community connected to the family.
Although little has been shared publicly about her life, it is common in such families for the matriarch to play a quiet but important role in shaping values and supporting the success of her children and grandchildren. Observers say her influence is reflected in the public service careers of her family members.
As news of her passing spreads, sympathies are expected to pour in from political associates, community leaders, and ordinary Nigerians. Messages of condolence are already being shared online, with many expressing support for the family during this period.
For now, attention remains on both the mourning process and the upcoming court date. The outcome of the legal proceedings involving Nasir El-Rufai is likely to attract further public interest, while funeral arrangements for his late mother are expected to be announced by the family in due course.
The coming days will therefore be significant for the El-Rufai family, as they navigate both grief and legal uncertainty at the same time.