Former President Dies at 82 in London After Prolonged Illness

President Bola Tinubu, along with several former Nigerian leaders, is expected in Daura today for the burial of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in a London hospital at the age of 82.

Vice President Kashim Shettima flew to the UK on Tinubu’s directive to accompany Buhari’s remains back to Nigeria. In line with Islamic customs, he will be laid to rest in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State.

National Mourning and Tributes

President Tinubu declared seven days of national mourning, ordering all flags flown at half-mast. An emergency Federal Executive Council meeting has also been scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, to honour Buhari.

In a personal tribute, Tinubu described Buhari as a statesman of "unwavering dedication" who led Nigeria through critical periods—both as military ruler (1984–1985) and as a two-term elected president (2015–2023).

“He was a patriot, a soldier, and a statesman. His legacy of discipline, anti-corruption, and national unity will endure,” Tinubu wrote.

He extended condolences to Buhari’s widow, Aisha Buhari, and assured that the former president would be given full state honours.

Reflections From Friends and Former Colleagues

Former Military President Ibrahim Babangida expressed deep sorrow, calling Buhari a brother and comrade since their military training in 1962. “Our bond was built on shared values—discipline, service, and loyalty to Nigeria,” he said.

Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who served with Buhari for eight years, called him “a true patriot” and praised his integrity and devotion to public service. He and his wife, Dolapo, spoke with Aisha Buhari and son Yusuf to offer their condolences.

Different Scenes in Kaduna and Daura

While Buhari’s Kaduna residence remained quiet and heavily secured, his home in Daura saw a steady influx of mourners and sympathisers. Residents and local leaders in Katsina gathered to offer prayers and share memories of the late leader.

Governors, Political Leaders Pay Tribute

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum, led by Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, mourned Buhari as a man of “moral courage and humility,” calling his death a loss to the continent.

APC governors, in a message signed by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, described Buhari as “an emblematic figure of honesty and sacrifice.”

Governor Muhammadu Yahaya of Gombe State said Buhari “embodied integrity, discipline, and national unity,” while Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani declared, “Nigeria has lost a statesman; history has gained a legend.”

Governors from Ogun, Bauchi, Benue, Ekiti, Edo, and Oyo similarly praised Buhari’s patriotism, simplicity, and lifelong dedication to public service.

Voices From the Legislature and Beyond

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, said Buhari’s legacy of integrity and modesty earned him widespread respect.

Senator Ahmad Lawan noted Buhari’s strategic leadership, particularly during times of economic and national security challenges.

Senators Aliyu Wamakko, Ede Dafinone, and Simon Lalong also highlighted Buhari’s fight against corruption and his role in unifying the nation.

Former governors, lawmakers, and members of the African Democratic Congress, including Rauf Aregbesola and David Mark, called Buhari “a selfless patriot whose leadership example will remain indelible.”

National and Religious Reflections

Arewa Consultative Forum chieftain Anthony Sani said Buhari’s impact “needs no tombstone,” while the Northern Christian Association of Nigeria described him as a “father figure” whose “War Against Indiscipline and Corruption” shaped national discourse.

Despite mixed opinions on some of his policies, many agree that Buhari’s personal lifestyle and anti-corruption stance were defining features of his time in office.