Atiku, Amaechi, Malami Lead Condolence Visits to El-Rufai After Mother’s Death Amid ICPC Detention

Former Kaduna governor receives political heavyweights after temporary release on compassionate grounds

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By A1 News International
Abuja, Nigeria — March 29, 2026

Former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has received high-profile condolence visits following the death of his mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai. The visits came after he was granted temporary leave from ICPC custody to attend funeral rites in Abuja.

Hajiya Umma El-Rufai died on Friday in Cairo, Egypt, after a period of illness, prompting an outpouring of sympathy from political leaders, associates and supporters.

El-Rufai, who has been in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) since February over allegations of financial misconduct, was released on compassionate grounds to enable him participate in burial arrangements.

Among those who visited him at his Abuja residence was former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who led a delegation to express solidarity with the family.

In a message shared on his X platform, Atiku described the loss as deeply painful and offered prayers for the repose of the deceased. He noted that El-Rufai remained strong despite the circumstances and encouraged him to remain steadfast in faith.

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Also present were former Minister of Transportation and ex-Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi; former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, SAN; and former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, alongside other political figures.

Former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi with El-Rufai. X/@ADCVanguard_

The condolence visits drew attention not only to the personal loss but also to El-Rufai’s ongoing legal situation, which has kept him under investigation by anti-corruption authorities in recent weeks.

High-Profile Political Presence
The gathering of senior political figures across party lines underscored El-Rufai’s enduring influence within Nigeria’s political landscape, even amid legal scrutiny.

ICPC Detention and Temporary Release
El-Rufai’s release from custody was granted strictly on compassionate grounds, allowing him to attend family obligations while investigations into alleged financial misconduct continue.

The development highlights the intersection of personal tragedy and political accountability in Nigeria’s public life. It also reflects how political alliances and networks remain active even when key figures face legal challenges.