Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Laid to Rest in Daura
A Nation in Mourning
Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has been laid to rest at his home in northern Nigeria, just two days after his passing at the age of 82 in a London clinic. His body was flown back to Nigeria earlier on Tuesday, where he was received at the airport in Katsina State by his successor, Bola Tinubu.
Final Farewell in Daura
The remains of the late president were transported to his hometown of Daura, where hundreds gathered to pay their respects. Islamic funeral prayers were held at the central mosque, marking a solemn occasion for the community and the nation. Buhari's body was interred in a grave dug in the grounds of his home, with dignitaries in attendance, including President Tinubu, Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, and Buhari's former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo.
As a tribute, military gunshots were fired, and the Nigerian flag that covered Buhari's corpse was removed, folded, and presented to his family, symbolizing the nation's respect for its former leader. In honor of Buhari, the government declared Tuesday a public holiday, recognizing his unique role as one of only two Nigerians to have served as both a military leader and a democratically elected president.
A Legacy of Leadership
Buhari's political journey was marked by significant milestones, including his initial election as president in 2015, where he became the first opposition leader to defeat an incumbent. His tenure spanned two four-year terms, during which he was known for his austere leadership style and commitment to national service.
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, reflecting on Buhari's impact on the nation. Former President Goodluck Jonathan, whom Buhari defeated, praised him as a selfless leader dedicated to his duties with a deep sense of patriotism.
Former military ruler Gen Ibrahim Babangida, who famously overthrew Buhari in a 1985 coup, also expressed admiration, stating, “He is a man who, even in retirement, remained a moral compass to many, and an example of modesty in public life.”
National Mourning
In recognition of Buhari's contributions, President Tinubu declared a seven-day national mourning period. In an official condolence statement released on Sunday evening, Tinubu emphasized that the nation would pay its final respects to Buhari with dignity and honor, starting with the lowering of all national flags to half-mast across the country.
As Nigeria reflects on the legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, his passing marks the end of an era in the nation’s political landscape, leaving behind a complex legacy that will be remembered for years to come.