Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has been granted temporary bail by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) following the death of his mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai.
The decision was taken to allow him attend and perform the funeral rites of his late mother, who died on Friday in Cairo, Egypt, after a period of illness. She was believed to be about 100 years old at the time of her death.
The development was confirmed by El-Rufai’s son, Bashir, in a post shared on social media late Friday. In the message, he expressed relief over his father’s release and thanked supporters who stood by the family during the period.
The temporary bail comes amid an emotional time for the El-Rufai family, which has suffered multiple losses within a short period. Just a week before the passing of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, the family also lost a daughter-in-law, Safiya Ali Rufai, deepening their grief.
News of the matriarch’s death was first announced by her grandson, Bello El-Rufai, who shared the information in a Facebook post. In his message, he prayed for her soul and thanked God for her long life.
Hajiya Umma El-Rufai was widely described as a strong and respected figure within her family and community. Many who knew her said she lived a life of service, kindness, and devotion to her faith. Her long life was seen as a blessing, and her passing has drawn tributes from across Nigeria.
Among those who sent condolence messages was President Bola Tinubu, who described the late matriarch as a woman who lived a meaningful and fulfilled life. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President expressed sympathy to El-Rufai and his family.
Tinubu noted that losing a mother is a painful experience and said he understood the depth of the loss, having gone through a similar situation himself. He prayed that the family would find comfort in the memories and values she left behind.
The President also expressed belief that the late Hajiya had completed her journey on earth according to the will of God and had returned to her Creator. He urged the family to remain strong during the difficult time.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also paid tribute, describing her death as a sad moment, even though she lived a long and fulfilled life. He prayed for her soul to be granted eternal rest and asked God to give the family the strength to cope with the loss.
Atiku added that her passing on a Friday, a day considered holy in Islam, could be a source of comfort to the family. He noted that such timing is often seen by many Muslims as a sign of divine favour.
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani also extended his condolences, speaking on behalf of the government and people of the state. He described Hajiya Umma El-Rufai as a woman of grace, strength, and strong moral values.
According to him, she was known for her kindness and her commitment to helping others, especially the vulnerable. He said her role in promoting peace and unity within her community would not be forgotten.
Governor Sani added that her life was marked by compassion, humility, and service, noting that she served as a source of guidance and support to many people. He expressed solidarity with the El-Rufai family during their time of mourning.
Also reacting, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, said he was deeply saddened by the news. He described the late matriarch as a caring figure and recalled fond memories of his interactions with her.
Ribadu said that words may not be enough to comfort the family but prayed that God would forgive her shortcomings and grant her eternal rest. He also prayed for strength for the family as they deal with the loss.
The death of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai has once again drawn attention to the personal lives of public figures and the challenges they face beyond politics. While El-Rufai is known for his role in governance and national issues, this moment highlights his position as a son mourning his mother.
El-Rufai served as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023 and remains an influential figure in Nigerian politics. His activities have often attracted public attention, both in and out of office. His current situation with the ICPC has also been closely followed, although details of the case remain limited in the public space.
The granting of temporary bail in this situation reflects a common practice where authorities allow individuals to attend important family events, especially in cases of bereavement. It is seen as a humanitarian gesture that respects cultural and religious obligations.
In many Nigerian communities, funeral rites are considered very important, particularly for elderly family members. These rites often involve prayers, gatherings, and other activities meant to honour the life of the deceased and provide support to the grieving family.
As of the time of filing this report, details of the burial arrangements for Hajiya Umma El-Rufai had not yet been announced. However, it is expected that family members, friends, and well-wishers will gather to pay their final respects.
The loss of a matriarch like Hajiya Umma El-Rufai is often deeply felt, not just by immediate family members but also by the wider community. Her long life and contributions have left a lasting impact on those who knew her.
For now, attention remains on the family as they prepare to lay her to rest. The temporary release of Nasir El-Rufai is expected to allow him fully participate in the funeral rites and support his family during this period of mourning.