Tinubu, Will Attend Former Presidents Buhari’s Burial in Daura

President Bola Tinubu, alongside several former Nigerian leaders, will be gathered in Daura, Katsina State, Today to attend the burial of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in a London hospital at the age of 82.

Buhari died on Sunday following a prolonged, undisclosed illness. His remains were flown back to Nigeria early Monday, accompanied by Vice-President Kashim Shettima on Tinubu’s directive. The burial took place the same day, in accordance with Islamic customs.

The Federal Government ordered all national flags to be flown at half-mast for seven days, and an emergency Federal Executive Council meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday to honour the former leader.

In a heartfelt tribute, President Tinubu described Buhari as a patriot and statesman who served Nigeria with distinction both as a military leader from 1984 to 1985 and as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023. Tinubu praised Buhari’s anti-corruption efforts and commitment to national unity.

Low-Key Arrival in Kaduna, Outpouring in Daura

Buhari’s Kaduna residence remained quiet, guarded by military personnel, with minimal public activity. In contrast, Daura witnessed a significant turnout of mourners and sympathisers, with many arriving to pay their last respects.

Tributes from Across Nigeria

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo mourned Buhari as a soldier, administrator, and statesman, noting the loss came at a time when Nigeria needed his experience most. Former Military President Ibrahim Babangida called Buhari a patriotic figure and a friend, reflecting on their shared military history.

Former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo expressed deep sadness, describing Buhari as a true patriot whose legacy was marked by integrity and service. Obasanjo, Babangida, and Osinbajo all extended condolences to the Buhari family.

Governors from across Nigeria also paid tributes. The Nigeria Governors’ Forum described Buhari as a moral force in African politics. APC governors, led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, hailed him as a symbol of integrity and sacrifice.

Kaduna Governor Uba Sani, Ogun Governor Dapo Abiodun, Gombe Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed, and others praised Buhari’s lifelong dedication to Nigeria. Katsina State, Buhari’s home state, saw a surge of prayer gatherings and somber reflection.

Reactions from Politicians and Groups

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, and Senators Simon Lalong, Ahmad Lawan, and Aliyu Wamakko all issued glowing tributes, highlighting Buhari’s incorruptibility, discipline, and national impact.

Chieftains of the African Democratic Congress, including Rauf Aregbesola and Senator David Mark, described Buhari as a principled leader who remained committed to national unity. The Christian Association of Nigeria (Northern chapter) called him a father figure who left a deep imprint on Nigeria’s history.

A Leader Remembered

Throughout his tenure, Buhari’s health was a subject of public discussion, as he undertook numerous medical trips abroad, particularly to the UK. Despite his medical absences, Buhari remained a commanding figure in Nigerian politics.

His death has triggered a nationwide period of mourning, with tributes pouring in from political, religious, and civil society groups, underscoring the lasting impact of his leadership on Nigeria’s political landscape.