The family of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has confirmed the passing of his mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai.
The announcement was made on Friday by his son, Bello El-Rufai, who shared the news in a public statement. He expressed gratitude for her life and called on the public to remember the family in prayers.
“Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. From Allah we came and to Him we shall return,” he wrote, adding that the family appreciates the support and goodwill of well-wishers during this period.
The sad development comes at a time when El-Rufai is facing legal proceedings over allegations of financial misconduct. The former governor was recently arraigned before a Federal High Court, where he denied all charges brought against him.
The case involves multiple counts related to alleged financial transactions. However, his legal representatives have maintained that he is directly linked to only one of the charges.
Following his arraignment, the court adjourned the matter to March 31, 2026, for the commencement of trial and the hearing of pending applications, including his request for bail.
El-Rufai appeared in court under tight security, with operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force present.
His legal team explained that although a bail application has already been filed, it could not be addressed immediately and will be considered at the next hearing.
The loss of his mother adds a personal tragedy to an already challenging period for the former governor and his family as the legal process continues.