Shettima, Atiku, Obi, Others Attend Buhari’s Fidau in Daura

The three-day Fidau prayer for the late former President Muhammadu Buhari was held on Wednesday at his Daura residence in Katsina State, drawing national leaders, Islamic clerics, and dignitaries from across Nigeria.

The Sarkin Malamai of Daura, Mallam Naziru Daura, led prayers for the late president, asking Allah to grant him forgiveness and eternal rest.

Among those present were Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu; former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi; Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum; and Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda. Other notable attendees included former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, ex-Minister of Foreign Affairs Babagana Kingibe, and several federal ministers and former cabinet members.

Traditional rulers, including the Emir of Daura, Alhaji Faruk Umar Faruk, and other emirs from northern states, were also in attendance alongside district heads and kingmakers.

Speaking at the event, Vice President Shettima reflected on the inevitability of death and shared a personal anecdote about being sent by President Tinubu on a “sensitive mission” to visit Buhari during his medical stay in London.

“Buhari’s death is not just a loss to his family or Daura but to the entire nation,” Shettima said, urging Nigerians to live with the consciousness of life’s transience.

Governor Radda described Buhari as a father figure and guiding force for the people of Katsina. “All we can do is continue to pray for his soul and uphold the legacies he left behind,” he added.

Former Minister Isa Pantami also led a prayer session, while Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri paid tribute, calling Buhari “a leader of integrity who served Nigeria with humility and accountability.”

Senate President Godswill Akpabio led a National Assembly delegation to the prayer, describing Buhari as “a patriot who gave his all for Nigeria.” He recalled how his team overcame flight challenges to attend, underscoring their commitment to honouring the former president.

Governor Radda, in his remarks to the delegation, revealed that Buhari often reminded him to lead with justice and fear God. “He appeared reserved from a distance but was warm and inspiring in person. His passing is a great loss to us all,” Radda said.