Former Kaduna Governor El-Rufai Released From ICPC Custody After Mother's Death
Kaduna State - Former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai has been released from the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) after spending over a month in detention. The release comes just days after the passing of his mother in Cairo, Egypt.
Compassionate Release Following Family Tragedy
El-Rufai's son, Bashir El-Rufai, confirmed his father's release in a social media post on Friday, March 27, 2026. According to reports from Daily Trust, the former governor was likely released on compassionate grounds to allow him to attend to family matters following his mother's death.
The remains of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai are expected to be flown from Cairo to Nigeria on Saturday, March 28, 2026. The former governor had been in ICPC custody since February 18, 2026, facing allegations of financial misconduct and related matters during his tenure as Kaduna State governor.
Family Criticism and Political Reactions
In his social media announcement, Bashir El-Rufai strongly criticized the ICPC, describing the agency as "one of the most corrupt agencies in the Federal Republic of Nigeria" and calling it "a lame excuse for a pathetic institution." He expressed gratitude to supporters while condemning what he characterized as unlawful detention.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended condolences to El-Rufai and his family, acknowledging the significant contributions of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai's children and grandchildren to Nigeria's development. The President shared in the former governor's grief over losing his beloved mother.
Political Figures Express Condolences
Several prominent political figures have expressed their sympathies following the news of the family tragedy. Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and current Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani both sent messages of condolence to El-Rufai and his family after learning of his mother's passing.
The announcement of Umma El-Rufai's death at an advanced age was initially made on social media by her grandson, Mohammed Bello El-Rufai. Both Ribadu and Governor Sani expressed their sadness through social media platforms as news of the incident circulated online.
El-Rufai, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), remains a significant figure in Nigerian politics despite his recent legal challenges. His release from ICPC custody marks a significant development in what has been a closely watched case involving allegations of corruption during his time as governor of Kaduna State.
