Former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai has been granted temporary freedom following the death of his mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai.

He was allowed out of custody by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission so he can take part in her burial rites. The family confirmed her passing on Friday, noting that she died in Cairo after an illness.

For the El-Rufai family, this is coming at a particularly heavy time. The loss of the family matriarch—said to have lived close to a century, comes just days after another bereavement, making the moment even more difficult.

News of his temporary release surfaced through his son, Bashir, who shared an emotional message online, thanking those who have stood by the family.

As expected, condolences have been pouring in from across the political space. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani are among those who have reached out, offering prayers and support.

While the family focuses on mourning, El-Rufai’s legal situation hasn’t changed. He is still facing corruption-related charges, with court proceedings expected to continue after this brief release.