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Body of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Arrives in Nigeria for Burial Amid Mixed Reactions
Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari passed away at the age of 82 on Sunday in a London clinic after a brief illness. Buhari, a significant figure in Nigeria's political landscape, is being flown back to Nigeria for burial in his hometown, Daura, located in Katsina State. The burial is planned for Monday if his body arrives during daylight hours. If not, Islamic clerics say it will be held Tuesday morning, in line with religious customs that discourage night burials. Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State, speaking from London, confirmed that the late president’s remains would be brought back immediately. Vice-President Kashim Shettima, also in London, will accompany the body back home. Despite Buhari’s high profile, his burial will be simple, adhering to Islamic rites, with no elaborate state funeral. Islamic cleric Abdullahi Garangamawa emphasized the importance of burying the former president quickly, as is customary in Islamic tradition. President Bola Tinubu has announced a seven-day period of national mourning. All flags in Nigeria are to be flown at half-mast as a sign of respect and national loss.
Following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, tributes have poured in from across Nigeria’s political and military landscape. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led national mourning by declaring a seven-day period of remembrance and lowering flags to half-mast. Tinubu’s official statement praised Buhari’s role in shaping Nigeria’s destiny, promising a respectful farewell. Former President Goodluck Jonathan, who lost the 2015 election to Buhari, described him as selfless and deeply patriotic. General Ibrahim Babangida, who overthrew Buhari in a 1985 military coup, also offered glowing praise, calling him a moral compass and a symbol of modest public service. Buhari’s death closes the chapter on one of Nigeria’s most notable political figures. He served as a military head of state in the 1980s and later as a civilian president from 2015 to 2023, becoming one of only two leaders in Nigeria’s history to hold power in both military and democratic forms. While his administration faced criticism, especially on economic issues and insecurity, Buhari was widely seen as a man of discipline and integrity, with a strong anti-corruption stance. His passing marks the end of an era in Nigeria’s governance and leadership. The nation now watches as Daura prepares to receive its most famous son for his final rites, with leaders, citizens, and admirers reflecting on his impact and legacy.
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