Obi Mourns El-Rufai’s Mother, Sends Condolences

According to Ireporter Online, former presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed his condolences to former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai following the death of his mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai.

In a statement issued on Friday night, Obi described the loss as deeply painful for the family and prayed for the repose of the late matriarch’s soul. He noted that the passing of a mother represents a significant moment in anyone’s life.

Obi said, “I have just received the sad news of the passing of the mother of my brother, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, in Cairo, Egypt, where she had been receiving treatment. This is indeed a sombre moment for the El-Rufai family, as Mama’s passing marks the close of a significant chapter in their matriarchal lineage. The loss of a mother is a profound turning point in anyone’s life, regardless of status or position. My deepest sympathies go to Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and the entire family. May her soul rest in Aljannatul Firdaus.”

Hajiya Umma El-Rufai reportedly passed away on Friday in Cairo after a period of illness. She was believed to be around 100 years old. Her death was first announced by her grandson, Bello El-Rufai, on Facebook, where he expressed gratitude for her life and requested prayers for her soul.

Following her passing, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) granted temporary bail to Nasir El-Rufai to allow him to attend funeral rites. His son, Bashir El-Rufai, confirmed his father’s release in a post on his handle on Friday night.

Several prominent Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, have paid tribute to the late matriarch. Her death comes just a week after the passing of her daughter-in-law, Safiya Ali Rufai.