The Katsina State Government has declared today, Monday a public holiday in honor of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who died in London on Sunday evening.

Announcing the holiday, the Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Garba Faskari, said the move is to give residents the opportunity to grieve and pray alongside the rest of the nation for the late leader.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda extended his heartfelt condolences to Buhari’s family, the people of Katsina, and Nigerians at large. He praised the former president as “a distinguished leader, a hero, a committed democrat, and a patriotic statesman who devoted his life to the service of the nation.”

The governor also prayed for Almighty Allah (SWT) to show mercy on Buhari’s soul, forgive his shortcomings, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.

Additional information regarding burial arrangements will be shared with the public in due course.