Ex-President dies in London aged 82 | Nation mourns a soldier-statesman
By Moses Adeniyi
DAURA, KATSINA STATE — Nigeria is in mourning as immediate past President, Muhammadu Buhari, aged 82, is laid to rest today (Monday) in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, following Islamic rites. The late leader passed away on Sunday afternoon at a London hospital, where he had been receiving treatment for a prolonged but undisclosed illness.
President Bola Tinubu, who returned from an international trip early Sunday, has led tributes to his predecessor, describing him as “a patriot, a soldier, a statesman” whose “legacy of service and sacrifice endures.” National flags are flying at half-mast for seven days in Buhari’s honour, and an emergency session of the Federal Executive Council has been scheduled for Tuesday, 15 July.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima, acting on Tinubu’s directive, travelled to the UK to accompany Buhari’s body back home. The late president’s remains arrived in Nigeria in the early hours of Monday and were transported directly to Daura for interment.
The solemn occasion is being attended by a host of Nigeria’s current and former leaders, including ex-presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Ibrahim Babangida, and Goodluck Jonathan. Several West African heads of state are expected to arrive in the country in the coming days to pay their respects.
A Soldier’s Journey Through History
Born in 1942 in Daura, Muhammadu Buhari first came to national prominence as a military ruler between January 1984 and August 1985, following a coup that overthrew the civilian government of President Shehu Shagari. He returned to power three decades later as a democratically elected president in 2015, securing re-election in 2019 and serving until May 2023.
President Tinubu, in a heartfelt tribute he personally signed, praised Buhari’s lifelong commitment to national unity, discipline in governance, and his determined anti-corruption crusade.
“He stood firm through turbulent times, leading with quiet strength and profound integrity,” Tinubu wrote. “He championed discipline in public service, confronted corruption head-on, and placed the country above personal interest at every turn.”
He further stated that the Federal Government would organise a national funeral to reflect Buhari’s “towering contributions” to the country.
Tributes from Fellow Statesmen: Obasanjo, Osinbajo Mourn
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo expressed sorrow at Buhari’s passing, describing him as a “reputable soldier and co-patriot.”
“This is a great loss to the nation,” Obasanjo told reporters. “At a time like this, we need the wisdom and experience of those who have led this country before. He will be sorely missed.”
Former Military President General Ibrahim Babangida (rtd.) offered an emotionally charged tribute, calling Buhari a “friend, brother, coursemate, and fellow soldier.” The two joined the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna in 1962.
“From those early days, Muhammadu stood out — quiet yet resolute, principled yet humble, deeply patriotic and fiercely loyal to Nigeria,” Babangida said.
Former Vice-President Prof Yemi Osinbajo, who served under Buhari from 2015 to 2023, also paid tribute.
“President Buhari’s legacy will endure as a testament to the nobility of public service, defined by honesty, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the public good,” he said in a personal tribute he signed. “Nigeria has lost a true patriot.”
Health and Final Days
The former president had travelled to London in late June for follow-up care relating to a long-standing medical condition. During his presidency, he embarked on numerous medical visits abroad, particularly to the United Kingdom.
His longest medical absence came in 2017 when he spent over 100 days abroad, fuelling nationwide debate about the transparency of his administration regarding his health.
Despite his frailty in later years, Buhari remained active in national discourse until shortly before his death. His health challenges were kept largely private throughout his time in office, described publicly only as “routine check-ups” by aides.
National Mourning Underway
Across the country, citizens and institutions have begun mourning Buhari’s passing. Social media platforms are awash with tributes from political leaders, civil society actors, and everyday Nigerians reflecting on his complex legacy.
In Daura, Buhari’s hometown, a mood of solemnity and respect has enveloped the community. Traditional leaders and local residents have gathered to honour a native son who rose to become a defining figure in Nigeria’s post-independence history.
President Tinubu closed his tribute with a prayer: “May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus. And may his life continue to inspire generations of Nigerians to serve with courage, conviction, and selflessness.”
Brief: President Muhammadu Buhari (1942–2025)
- Born: December 17, 1942, Daura, Katsina State
- Military Head of State: 1984–1985
- Democratically Elected President: 2015–2023
- Key Legacies: Anti-corruption drive, emphasis on security and discipline, infrastructure development
- Survived by: Wife, Aisha Buhari; children and grandchildren