Abuja witnessed a convergence of Nigeria’s political elite on Sunday as dignitaries from across the country gathered for the burial of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, mother of former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai.
The late matriarch died on Friday, March 27, in Cairo, Egypt, after a brief illness. She was laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites at the Gudu Cemetery in the Federal Capital Territory, following the arrival of her remains from Egypt, where she had reportedly been living with her son.
The Janazah (funeral prayer) drew a massive turnout, underscoring the El-Rufai family’s far-reaching political connections and influence. Among those present were Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi; former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi; and former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal.
They were joined by a host of political associates, senior government officials, traditional rulers, and sympathisers who came to pay their last respects and stand in solidarity with the grieving family.
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Prayers were offered for the peaceful repose of the deceased’s soul, with clerics and mourners also seeking divine strength and comfort for the El-Rufai family during this period of loss.
Hajiya Umma El-Rufai was widely regarded as a devoted mother and a strong pillar within her family. Those who spoke about her described her as a woman of quiet strength whose values and influence were evident in the lives of her children and those around her.
Her passing comes at a particularly difficult time for the family, as Malam Nasir El-Rufai is currently contending with ongoing legal challenges.
In the wake of her death, condolences poured in from across the nation. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, and the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, sent messages of sympathy to the family.
Additionally, prominent political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, visited the former governor at his Abuja residence to personally express their condolences.
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The large turnout at the burial and the flood of tributes highlight the deep respect for the late Hajiya Umma El-Rufai and the enduring influence of her family within Nigeria’s political landscape.
