Ribadu mourns el-Rufai’s mother, recalls ‘fond memories’

Nuhu Ribadu, the national security adviser, has expressed grief over the death of Hajiya Umma, mother of former Kaduna governor Nasir el-Rufai.

The passing of Umma was announced on Friday by her grandson, Bello el-Rufai, via X. She reportedly died in Egypt, where she had been receiving medical treatment.

In a condolence message, Ribadu said he was “deeply saddened” by the news, reflecting on personal moments he shared with the deceased.

“I have fond memories of shared moments with her and her motherly care,” he said.

He described the loss as profound, noting that words may not be sufficient to comfort the family during such a difficult time.

Ribadu extended his sympathies to el-Rufai and his family, praying for strength and comfort as they mourn.

“May Almighty Allah forgive her shortcomings, grant her eternal rest in Aljannah Firdaus, and give the family the strength to bear this loss,” he added.

Meanwhile, el-Rufai’s recent legal troubles continue to unfold. In February, the Department of State Services filed a three-count charge against him over allegations of intercepting Ribadu’s telephone conversation.

El-Rufai had earlier claimed, during an interview on Prime Time, an Arise Television programme, that his arrest was linked to a wiretapped call involving the NSA.

The former governor, who has been in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission since February 19, was released on compassionate grounds on Friday following his mother’s death.

He was arraigned on Tuesday alongside Joel Adoga at a federal high court in Kaduna on charges of alleged money laundering, fraud, and abuse of office. Both defendants pleaded not guilty.

The court adjourned hearing on his bail application to March 31.