By Peter Omopo
The remains of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, mother of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, have arrived in Nigeria ahead of her burial scheduled for 1 p.m. on Sunday in Abuja.
The development was confirmed in a statement shared on social media by her grandson, Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, who announced that the body had safely landed in the Federal Capital Territory.
According to the statement, funeral prayers will be held at the National Mosque Abuja, after which she will be laid to rest at the Gudu Cemetery.
Hajiya Umma passed away on Friday in Cairo, Egypt, following a prolonged illness associated with old age. Her death was earlier announced by Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, who called for prayers for her soul.
Family members described her as a matriarch whose life was marked by faith and service, expressing gratitude for her years and contributions.
Her passing has drawn condolences from prominent figures, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, who all extended prayers and sympathies to the El-Rufai family.
Meanwhile, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission had earlier released Nasir El-Rufai from custody following news of his mother’s death. The former governor had been detained since February 19, 2026, over allegations bordering on the conversion of public property and money laundering.
He was arraigned before a Federal High Court in Kaduna, which adjourned his bail application until March 31.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be conducted in accordance with Islamic rites, with family members, associates, and well-wishers gathering to pay their final respects.
