BY EDMOND ODOK – The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has released Malam Nasir el-Rufai, former Governor of Kaduna State, from its custody.
Insider sources hinted that the anti-graft agency freed the former governor just hours after his mother, Hajiya Umma, passed away on Friday in Cairo, the Egyptian capital after a period of illness.
However, an associate of El-Rufai, who confirmed his release, did not offer further insights on development. Similarly, Bashir El-Rufai, the former governor’s son, also confirmed that his father is no longer in ICPC’s custody.
With strong indications that the release may have been on compassionate grounds, family sources hinted that the remains of Hajiya Umma, would be flown in from Cairo on Saturday for burial according to Islamic rites.
El-Rufai, who has been in ICPC custody since 19th February 2026, was arrested after leaving custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), where he was grilled for 48 hours.
The ICPC had arraigned him before a Federal High Court in Kaduna on a 10-count charge bordering on alleged conversion of public property and money laundering. Consequently, the trial court adjourned his bail application to March 31 for hearing.
Tinubu Condoles El-Rufai, Says It’s Deeply Painful Losing One’s Mother
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu; Governor Uba Sani; and Malam Nuhu Ribadu, have all sent their condolences to El-Rufai over his mother’s death.
Extending his condolences to the former governor and his family, the President described the deceased as a matriarch who lived a fulfilled and impactful life, raising children and grandchildren who have made meaningful contributions to national development.
A statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy quoted President Tinubu as empathising deeply with El-Rufai over the loss, noting that the death of a mother is a profound and irreplaceable loss.
Acknowledging that he understands the grief associated with such a personal tragedy, having experienced a similar loss, the President expressed hope that the memories of the late Hajiya Umma’s life, values and guidance would provide comfort to the family during the period of mourning.
President Tinubu, who also urged the deceased family to draw strength from her legacy and the positive influence she had on her family, further noted that, as people of faith, there is solace in the belief that the deceased had fulfilled her purpose on earth and returned to her Creator.
He joined family members, friends and associates in mourning the late matriarch and prayed for the repose of her soul, asking Allah to grant her Aljannah Firdaus.
