President Bola Tinubu and other past Nigerian leaders are expected in Daura, Katsina State, today, as the remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari are laid to rest in line with Islamic traditions.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, alongside Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, led the federal delegation to London where Buhari died on Sunday at 4:30 pm. The late president’s body was flown back to Nigeria overnight and transported directly to his hometown for burial.
Presidential aides confirmed that Buhari would be buried on Monday, noting that Islamic burial rites require swift interment. “They’re bringing his corpse over the night… they’ll bury him tomorrow,” an official stated.
President Tinubu, in a tribute released Sunday, described Buhari as “a patriot, a soldier, a statesman,” who served Nigeria “with unwavering dedication.” He announced full state honours for the former president, ordering flags flown at half-staff nationwide for seven days and convening an emergency Federal Executive Council session for Tuesday, July 15, in his honour.
The late president’s passing comes after a prolonged illness that saw him travel to London in late June for follow-up treatment. During his presidency, Buhari made over a dozen medical trips to the UK, raising public concern about his health.
Buhari ruled Nigeria from 1984 to 1985 as military head of state and later served two democratic terms from 2015–2023. His legacy includes a tough stance against corruption, prioritisation of national security, and infrastructural development. President Tinubu acknowledged these contributions and prayed for Buhari’s peaceful repose, asking Allah to grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida, and ex-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo led the outpouring of tributes.
Obasanjo called Buhari a “co-patriot and statesman,” lamenting that Nigeria lost his guidance when the country needs “the totality of experience” of its past leaders. Babangida described their friendship since military training in 1962, calling Buhari “principled, humble, and deeply patriotic.”
Osinbajo, who served under Buhari for eight years, praised him as “a true patriot” whose life exemplified “discipline, integrity, and public service.” He also confirmed speaking with Buhari’s widow, Aisha Buhari, and son Yusuf.
Public Reaction and Contrasting Scenes
While Buhari’s residence in Kaduna was heavily guarded and largely quiet on Sunday, his home in Daura witnessed an influx of mourners from across Nigeria. The state government and citizens offered prayers for his family and soul.
Sympathy visits from West African leaders are expected in the days ahead, with diplomatic arrangements ongoing.
Governors from across the country issued condolence messages. Imo State Governor and APC Governors Forum Chair, Hope Uzodimma, said Nigeria “bids farewell to one of its most emblematic figures of honest and dedicated leadership.”
Gombe State Governor and Northern Governors Forum Chair, Inuwa Yahaya, described Buhari as a “mentor and moral compass,” while Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani said Nigeria had “lost a statesman; history gained a legend.”
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun reflected on Buhari’s transition from military to civilian leadership, calling it a “monumental legacy.” Similar sentiments were echoed by governors from Bauchi, Benue, Edo, Ekiti, and Oyo states.
House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas hailed Buhari’s “incorruptible” legacy, while Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin remembered him as a “towering figure in our history.”
Former Plateau Governor Simon Lalong and APC leader Sam Ewang also offered condolences. Senator Ahmad Lawan, former Senate President, praised Buhari’s “strategic foresight and integrity.”
Christian and Muslim leaders alike praised Buhari’s patriotism, with Northern CAN Chair Rev. Joseph Hayab describing him as “a statesman who launched the War Against Indiscipline.”
As Nigeria buries one of its most influential leaders, national flags remain at half-mast and citizens reflect on his service, sacrifice, and commitment to the country’s unity. President Tinubu’s government has pledged to honour Buhari’s legacy with a funeral befitting his stature.
