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ICPC Releases El-Rufai Following Mother’s Death
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has released former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, following the death of his mother.
El-Rufai had been in ICPC custody since February 19, 2026, after being arraigned on a 10-count charge bordering on alleged conversion of public property and money laundering.
He was earlier brought before a Federal High Court in Kaduna, where proceedings on his bail application were adjourned until March 31.
Confirmation of his release came from his son, Bashir El-Rufai, who announced the development in a statement, describing his father’s detention as unlawful while expressing gratitude to supporters.
The development followed the death of El-Rufai’s mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, whose passing was earlier announced by her grandson, Mohammed Bello El-Rufai.
According to family sources, she died in Cairo, Egypt, on Friday, with plans underway to repatriate her remains to Nigeria for burial.
Hours after the announcement of her death, the anti-graft agency granted El-Rufai release, although details surrounding the conditions of his release were not immediately disclosed.
Meanwhile, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu have extended condolences to the former governor and his family, offering prayers during the period of mourning.
The case against El-Rufai remains before the court, with further proceedings expected at the end of March.
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