Tragedy Hits El-Rufai In ICPC Custody As Mother Dies In Egypt

​The former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has been hit by a major tragedy following the death of his biological mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, on Friday.

​The octogenarian reportedly passed away in Egypt, where she had been receiving medical treatment for an undisclosed ailment.

​The news of her demise was confirmed by her grandson and member representing Kaduna North Federal Constituency, Hon. Bello El-Rufai, in a statement shared via his social media handle on Friday afternoon.

​“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,” the lawmaker stated.

​He further described the deceased as a pillar of the family and requested prayers for the repose of her soul, adding, “We are grateful for the life she lived and may Allah SWT bless her gentle soul.”

​The passing of the matriarch comes at a particularly trying time for the former governor, who is currently in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

​Only two days ago, on Wednesday, March 25, El-Rufai was arraigned before a Federal High Court in Kaduna on a charge bordering on money laundering, fraud, and abuse of office. He pleaded not guilty to the charges, which involve the alleged diversion of over N579 million and $1.1 million.

​The court, presided over by Justice A.I. Aikawa, had ordered his remand in ICPC custody pending the hearing of his bail application, which is scheduled for Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

​As of the time of filing this report, the family had not officially announced the arrival of her remains from Egypt or the specific time for the Janaza (funeral prayer). However, sources close to the family indicate that preparations are underway in accordance with Islamic rites.