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 bail is to allow the embattled politician attend and perform the funeral rites of his late mother, who passed away on Friday in Cairo, Egypt, after a period of illness. She was reportedly about 100 years old.
Confirmation of El-Rufai’s release came from his son, Bashir El-Rufai, who disclosed the development in a post on X late Friday, expressing gratitude for the support received by the family during the period.
The death of the El-Rufai family matriarch comes barely a week after the passing of her daughter-in-law, Safiya Ali Rufai, compounding the grief within the family.
Her grandson, Bello El-Rufai, earlier announced her demise, describing it as a return to Allah and calling for prayers for her soul.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led a wave of condolences, describing the late Hajiya Umma as a woman of remarkable legacy whose children and grandchildren have made significant contributions to Nigeria.
In a statement, Tinubu sympathised with the former governor, noting that the pain of losing a mother is profound and deeply personal.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also expressed sorrow, acknowledging her fulfilled life and praying for her eternal rest in Aljannah Firdaus.
Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, paid glowing tribute to the deceased, describing her as a woman of grace, humility, and moral strength who played a vital role in promoting unity and compassion in her community.
Similarly, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, recalled fond memories of her warmth and motherly care, offering prayers for her soul and strength for the bereaved family.
El-Rufai remains under investigation by the ICPC over allegations of corruption and money laundering.
He was arraigned before a Federal High Court in Kaduna on March 24 on a 10-count charge, with proceedings adjourned until March 31, 2026, for the hearing of pending applications, including his substantive bail request.
As of the time of filing this report, funeral arrangements for the late matriarch had not been officially announced.
