KADUNA: Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has reportedly regained his freedom from the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) after spending more than a month in detention over allegations linked to financial activities during his tenure in office.
His release came amid a period of mourning in the family following the death of his mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, who passed away in Cairo, Egypt, on Friday, March 27, 2026, after a brief illness.
Sources close to the family disclosed that the former governor was allowed to reunite with his relatives shortly after the sad news broke, enabling him to participate in family arrangements and mourning activities.
The former governor had reportedly been under investigation by the ICPC over alleged irregularities related to financial transactions and contracts awarded during his administration as governor of Kaduna State.
Although the anti-corruption agency has not publicly disclosed the full details of the investigation, sources within political circles indicated that the probe focused on projects executed during the eight years El-Rufai spent in office between 2015 and 2023.
During that period, the former governor initiated several major reforms in infrastructure, education and urban development, some of which drew praise from supporters but also criticism from political opponents.
His detention by the ICPC in recent weeks had generated widespread debate across the country, with supporters describing the investigation as politically motivated while others insisted that public officials must remain accountable to anti-corruption agencies.
While the ICPC has yet to issue a detailed statement explaining the circumstances surrounding his release, sources familiar with the situation suggested that humanitarian considerations linked to the death of his mother played a role in the decision.
Family members reportedly requested that the anti-corruption agency allow the former governor temporary or conditional release so he could participate in funeral rites and support his family during the mourning period.
As of the time of filing this report, officials of the commission had not confirmed whether the release was temporary or permanent pending the outcome of investigations.
Reacting to the development, El-Rufai’s son, Bashir El-Rufai, publicly criticised the anti-corruption agency.
In a strongly worded statement posted on social media shortly after his father’s release, Bashir accused the commission of acting unfairly and described the institution as “corrupt.”
His comments triggered intense reactions online, with supporters defending the former governor while critics argued that the investigation should be allowed to run its full course without interference.
Political analysts say the remarks reflect the growing tension between the El-Rufai family and the anti-corruption agency following the prolonged detention.
The passing of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai has been described by family friends as a painful loss for the former governor and his relatives.
The late matriarch reportedly died in Cairo where she had travelled for medical treatment.
Relatives described her as a devoted mother and grandmother who played a central role in raising and supporting her children.
Friends of the family said she was widely respected within her community for her humility, generosity and strong religious values.
Following news of her death, condolence messages began pouring in from prominent Nigerian leaders, political figures and associates of the former governor.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed sympathy with the El-Rufai family, describing the death of a mother as one of life’s most painful experiences.
In his message, Tinubu prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul and asked God to grant the family the strength to bear the loss.
Vice President Kashim Shettima also extended condolences, noting that mothers occupy a special place in the lives of their children and families.
Shettima said the late matriarch’s life and contributions would remain a lasting source of inspiration for those who knew her.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the death as a painful loss to the El-Rufai family and prayed for divine comfort during the difficult moment.
Akpabio noted that losing a parent can be particularly difficult regardless of age and urged the former governor to remain strong.
Similarly, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, sent a message of sympathy, urging the family to draw strength from the legacy and values left behind by the late matriarch.
Abbas said the National Assembly stands in solidarity with the family during the period of mourning.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State also extended condolences to the El-Rufai family.
Sani described the late Hajiya Umma as a woman who raised a son that went on to serve Kaduna State and Nigeria in various capacities.
The governor prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul and comfort for the bereaved family.
Several political associates of the former governor also expressed sympathy.
Former governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, described the late matriarch as a woman of strong moral values who dedicated her life to her family.
Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, also sent condolences, urging the family to take comfort in the good life she lived.
Likewise, former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, said the death of a parent remains one of life’s most difficult experiences and prayed for God’s mercy upon the deceased.
Family sources disclosed that preparations for the burial of the late matriarch are currently underway.
Although the family has not yet announced the exact date for the funeral, close friends and political associates from across the country are expected to attend the burial rites.
Observers say the coming days are likely to witness an outpouring of sympathy and solidarity from political leaders, community members and supporters.
For many observers, the combination of El-Rufai’s release from custody and the death of his mother marks a deeply emotional moment for the former governor.
While the legal and political controversies surrounding his detention continue to attract national attention, supporters say the immediate focus remains on mourning the loss of a beloved family member.
As condolence messages continue to pour in from across the country, friends and associates have urged the former governor to remain strong and find comfort in the prayers and support of well-wishers during the difficult period.
