The remains of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, mother of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, were on Sunday laid to rest in Abuja following her death in Cairo, Egypt, after a brief illness.
Her grandson, Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, confirmed the arrival of the body and burial arrangements in a statement posted on X, noting that the Janazah prayer was held at the National Mosque Abuja before interment at Gudu Cemetery.
Hajiya Umma El-Rufai had reportedly been living with her son in Cairo, where she passed away on Friday while receiving treatment for an age-related illness.
The burial drew several prominent Nigerians, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, who joined family members and associates at the funeral prayers.
Also in attendance were the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, alongside other dignitaries.
In a condolence message shared on X, Atiku described the deceased as the matriarch of the El-Rufai family and prayed for her soul, asking God to grant her Aljannah Firdaus and comfort those she left behind.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other political figures had earlier paid tributes, reflecting the widespread sympathy extended to the family.
The burial comes amid a challenging period for Nasir El-Rufai, who is currently facing a legal battle after being arraigned before a Federal High Court in Kaduna on allegations bordering on corruption and money laundering. His case has been adjourned to March 31 for the hearing of pending applications, including his bail request.
He was, however, granted temporary release to attend his mother’s burial and be with his family during the mourning period.
