Kaduna Governor Uba Sani Leads Dignitaries at Funeral Prayer for el-Rufai's Mother
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani was among hundreds of Muslim faithful who attended the funeral prayer for the late Hajiya Umma el-Rufai at the Abuja Central Mosque on Saturday. The matriarch, mother of immediate past Kaduna Governor Nasir el-Rufai, passed away in Cairo on Friday. Her son was released from detention by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to attend the funeral arrangements, highlighting the family's urgent circumstances.
High-Profile Attendance and Condolence Messages
The solemn event drew senior government officials and public figures, reflecting the family's widespread influence. Attendees included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Niger State Governor Umar Bago, Gombe State Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, and former Kano State Governor Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. Traditional rulers such as the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamali, and Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, also paid their respects.
Notable personalities from various sectors included former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II, former Anambra Governor Peter Obi, and several captains of industry. President Bola Tinubu and numerous Nigerians sent condolence messages to the el-Rufai family, expressing solidarity during this period of grief.
Funeral Arrangements and Burial Details
The funeral prayer was followed by burial at the Gudu Cemetery in the Apo area of Abuja. Mohammed Bello el-Rufai, the deceased's grandson and member representing Kaduna North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, confirmed the arrival and arrangements in a statement posted on social media platform X yesterday morning. He provided updates on the logistical aspects, ensuring a dignified farewell for the matriarch.
Fayemi Mourns the Matriarch's Passing
In a separate development, immediate past Ekiti State Governor and former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF), Dr Kayode Fayemi, expressed deep sorrow over the loss. In a statement issued by his Media Office, Fayemi described Hajiya Umma's death as a profound loss not only to the el-Rufai family but to all who were touched by her life of humility, faith, and service.
He emphasized that the late matriarch lived a life defined by strong moral values, devotion to family, and commitment to community, traits he noted are evident in her son's public service. Fayemi extended heartfelt condolences to the ex-governor and the entire el-Rufai family, urging them to find strength and comfort in the memories of her impactful life.
The convergence of political, traditional, and industrial leaders at the funeral underscores the respect and esteem held for the el-Rufai family, while Fayemi's tribute highlights the matriarch's enduring legacy beyond immediate circles.
