The National Mosque in Abuja served as the focal point for a rare gathering of Nigeria’s political and business echelons on Sunday, as dignitaries across partisan divides convened for the funeral prayers (Janazah) of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, the matriarch of the El-Rufai family.
Hajiya Umma, the mother of the former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, passed away on Friday in Cairo, Egypt, following a brief illness. Her remains were subsequently repatriated to the Federation for interment in accordance with Islamic rites.
The solemn event was characterised by a significant presence of leading national figures, effectively transcending political affiliations. Amongst the prominent mourners were the former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, and the erstwhile Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi.
The gathering also featured the 16th Emir of Kano, His Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II; billionaire industrialist and Chairman of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote; and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu. Their presence underscored the deep respect held for the El-Rufai family within the nation’s socio-economic fabric.
The serving governors of several states were also in attendance to offer their condolences to their former colleague. The delegation included Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, Professor Babagana Zulum of Borno State, and the Governor of Niger State, Honourable Mohammed Bago.
Other notable attendees included the former Governor of Zamfara State, Senator Abdulaziz Yari; the former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Ganduje; and the former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Pantami.
Digital dispatches and footage circulating on social media depicted the dignitaries arriving at the mosque and taking their places amongst the congregation for the Janazah prayers. The atmosphere was one of profound reflection as the assembly petitioned for the repose of the soul of the deceased.
Taking to his official handle on the social media platform X, Atiku Abubakar shared his reflections on the day’s proceedings. “Today, I joined family, friends and associates of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and the extended El-Rufai family at the Janazah of the matriarch of the family, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai,” he stated. “May God continue to comfort the family and all who mourn her. And may Allah grant her Aljannah Firdaus [Paradise]. Amin.”
The passing of the matriarch has drawn tributes from the highest levels of the Nigerian government. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier issued a message of condolence to Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, praising the deceased for her legacy of service and character. Similar tributes have emanated from various sectors of society, including from Senator Shehu Sani and other eminent Nigerians.
The burial marks the conclusion of a significant era for the El-Rufai family, as the nation remembers a woman described by many as a pillar of strength and a devoted community leader.
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