The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, mother of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
In a condolence message shared on Facebook on Friday, Ribadu described the late matriarch as a kind and caring figure, recalling moments he shared with her over the years. He said her death is a painful loss, not only to her family but also to those who had the opportunity to know her personally.
“Inna lilLahi wa inna illahir raji’un. I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, the matriarch of the El-Rufai family,” Ribadu wrote.
He added that he had fond memories of her and remembered her for her motherly care. According to him, words are often not enough to comfort a family during such a difficult time.
“My heartfelt condolences to Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and the entire family. May Almighty Allah forgive her shortcomings, grant her eternal rest in Aljannah Firdaus, and give the family the strength to bear this loss,” he said.
The death of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai was earlier announced by her grandson, Bello El-Rufai, who confirmed that she passed away on Friday. He also used social media to inform the public and called for prayers for her soul.
“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,” Bello wrote.
The family described the late Hajiya Umma as a devoted mother and a central figure in the family. They expressed gratitude for her life and prayed for her peaceful rest.
As of the time of filing this report, details about the cause of her death and burial arrangements had not been made public.
Her passing has drawn attention across political and social circles, especially given the prominence of the El-Rufai family in Nigeria’s public life. Nasir El-Rufai, her son, served as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023 and remains an influential figure in national politics.
Before becoming governor, he held key positions at the federal level, including Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, where he was known for carrying out reforms in Abuja. His political career has kept him in the public eye for many years.
The condolence message from Ribadu is also significant because of his long-standing relationship with El-Rufai. Both men have worked in government and have been part of Nigeria’s political space for decades. Their interactions over the years have created both professional and personal connections.
In Nigerian culture, especially in the northern part of the country, the death of a mother or family elder is seen as a major loss. Such individuals are often regarded as the backbone of the family, providing guidance, support, and moral direction.
The loss of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai is therefore being felt deeply by her family and those close to them. Messages of sympathy are expected to continue coming from political leaders, friends, and members of the public.
Her death also comes at a sensitive time for the El-Rufai family, as Nasir El-Rufai is currently facing legal challenges. The Federal Government has filed charges against him at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The charges are linked to allegations of unlawful interception of communications involving Ribadu during a television appearance. The case has attracted public attention due to the high-profile individuals involved.
Although the matter is still before the court, it has added another layer of difficulty for the former governor, who is now dealing with both personal loss and legal issues.
Despite the circumstances, Ribadu’s message focused on sympathy and support, without making any reference to the ongoing legal case. His words highlighted the importance of empathy and respect during moments of grief, regardless of political differences.
As the El-Rufai family mourns, attention is expected to shift to funeral arrangements, which are likely to follow Islamic traditions. In line with these practices, burial may take place soon after death, often within 24 hours.
For now, the focus remains on prayers and support for the family as they go through this difficult period. The memory of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, described by many as a caring and devoted mother, is expected to live on through her children and grandchildren.