Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has extended his condolences to former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, following the death of his mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai.
In a statement issued on Friday night, Obi described the development as a painful loss for the family and prayed for the repose of the late matriarch’s soul.
Obi said he received the news of her passing with sadness, noting that the loss of a mother is a significant moment in anyone’s life.
He 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.”
He added that the loss of a mother is always a profound moment regardless of one’s status.
Obi further stated, “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 reportedly died on Friday in Cairo, Egypt, after a period of illness. She was said to be about 100 years old.
Her death was earlier announced by her grandson, Bello El-Rufai, in a Facebook post, where he expressed gratitude for her life and asked for prayers for her soul.
Following her death, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) granted temporary bail to Nasir El-Rufai to enable him participate in the funeral rites.
His son, Bashir El-Rufai, confirmed his father’s release in a post on his 𝕏 handle on Friday night.
Several prominent Nigerians have also paid tribute to the late matriarch, including President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani.
Her passing comes barely a week after the death of her daughter-in-law, Safiya Ali Rufai.