RismadarVoice Reporters, March 30, 2026
Prominent Nigerians from across political divides on Sunday gathered in Abuja to pay their last respects to Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, the mother of former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai.
The funeral rites, which took place from El-Rufai’s residence to the Central Mosque and later at the Gudu Cemetery, drew a wide array of political leaders, underscoring a rare moment of unity amid Nigeria’s often polarised political landscape.
Among those in attendance were Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, both of whom were present despite their recent political differences with the former governor.
Also at the Janazah prayer were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, and ex-Adamawa State Governor Jibrilla Bindow.
Several chieftains of the All Progressives Congress were also present, including Governors Babagana Zulum of Borno State and Mohammed Bago of Niger State, former APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, and former Minister of Interior Abdulrahman Dambazau.
Other notable attendees included the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari, Senator Shehu Sani, and business magnate Aliko Dangote.
A poignant moment during the burial at Gudu Cemetery saw former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, appeal for unity as he addressed El-Rufai and Governor Sani.
“Let us focus on the things that unite us because they are more than the things that divide us,” Pantami said, urging reflection on life’s transient nature.
Earlier, Atiku Abubakar had announced his attendance via his verified X handle, offering prayers for the deceased and comfort to the bereaved family.
President Bola Tinubu had also extended condolences, urging El-Rufai to find strength in the face of the loss.
The gathering highlighted a moment of shared grief that brought together leaders across party lines in honour of the late matriarch.
