Peter Obi Expresses Sympathy to Nasir El-Rufai Over Bereavement

Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condoled with former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, over the death of his mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai.

In a statement on Friday night, 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 died on Friday in Cairo, Egypt, after a period of illness. She was reportedly about 100 years old.

Following her death, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission granted temporary bail to El-Rufai to enable him perform the funeral rites of his late mother.

El-Rufai’s son, Bashir, confirmed his father’s release in a post on his X handle on Friday night.

Her death was announced earlier by her grandson, Bello El-Rufai, in a Facebook post, where he expressed gratitude for her life and called for prayers for her soul.

Meanwhile, notable Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, have also paid tributes to the late matriarch.

Her passing comes a week after the death of her daughter-in-law, Safiya Ali Rufai.