Nigeria Mourns: Former President Muhammadu Buhari Passes Away at 82
A Nation in Grief: Buhari's Final Journey Home
The body of Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria's former president, is being flown back to his hometown in Katsina State following his death at the age of 82 in a London clinic on Sunday. The nation is set to bid farewell to a leader who played a pivotal role in its post-independence history, as plans are made for his burial in Daura, a town located 50 miles from Katsina city.
Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda, who is currently in London with Buhari's family, confirmed that the burial will take place later on Monday. “I just left his family at the hospital where he died, and the decision is that his remains will be taken to Daura for burial,” Radda stated, adding that the plan is to leave in the morning.
Vice President's Role: Accompanying Buhari Home
Nigeria's Vice President Kashim Shettima, also in London, will accompany Buhari's remains back to Nigeria. In a social media post, Shettima confirmed Daura as Buhari’s final resting place, noting that the former leader passed away after a brief illness, although he had struggled with health issues for many years.
A Simple Farewell: Islamic Traditions Observed
Despite his status as a former president, there will not be a state funeral. In accordance with Islamic teachings, Buhari will be buried as soon as possible in a simple ceremony. Islamic cleric Abdullahi Garangamawa emphasized the importance of a timely burial, stating, “The only thing that should stop Buhari's corpse from being buried today is if his body arrives in Daura at night, as Islam frowns upon night burials.” If that occurs, the burial will take place on Tuesday morning.
Tributes Pour In: A Legacy Remembered
As news of Buhari's passing spreads, tributes have been pouring in from across the nation. Former President Goodluck Jonathan, who was defeated by Buhari in the 2015 election, described him as a leader who was “selfless in his commitment to his duty and served the country with character and a deep sense of patriotism.”
Former military ruler General Ibrahim Babangida, who overthrew Buhari in a 1985 coup, also praised the late leader, 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: A Time for Reflection
Current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a seven-day national mourning period in honor of his predecessor. In an official condolence statement released on Sunday evening, Tinubu expressed 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 prepares to lay Buhari to rest, the nation reflects on the complex legacy of a leader who served both as a military and civilian president, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s history.