Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away at the age of 82 in a London medical facility, is set to be flown back to his hometown of Daura, located in Katsina state. The burial is scheduled for Monday, with arrangements confirmed by Katsina state Governor Dikko Radda, who is in London with Buhari's family. "His remains will be taken to Daura for burial; we hope to leave by morning," the governor stated, indicating that Vice-President Kashim Shettima will accompany the body back to Nigeria.
Buhari's death followed a prolonged period of ill health, although specific details about his illness were not disclosed. Governor Radda assured that the burial would adhere to Islamic customs, emphasizing that the ceremony would be kept simple, in accordance with Islamic practices. Local cleric Abdullahi Garangamawa noted that the burial would occur promptly unless the body could not arrive before nightfall, as Islam discourages night burials.
As Nigeria grapples with the loss of a leader who served both as a military and civilian president, tributes have poured in from various sectors. Former President Goodluck Jonathan paid homage to Buhari's commitment to the nation, while General Ibrahim Babangida, a predecessor whom Buhari had overthrown, praised him as a moral example and symbol of modest governance.
In a show of respect, current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a seven-day mourning period across the country. National flags will be flown at half-mast beginning Sunday, with President Tinubu expressing the nation’s desire to honor Buhari's legacy with dignity.
The announcement comes alongside other critical political transitions, reflecting the ongoing dynamism of Nigeria's political landscape during this period of national grief.
Buhari's death followed a prolonged period of ill health, although specific details about his illness were not disclosed. Governor Radda assured that the burial would adhere to Islamic customs, emphasizing that the ceremony would be kept simple, in accordance with Islamic practices. Local cleric Abdullahi Garangamawa noted that the burial would occur promptly unless the body could not arrive before nightfall, as Islam discourages night burials.
As Nigeria grapples with the loss of a leader who served both as a military and civilian president, tributes have poured in from various sectors. Former President Goodluck Jonathan paid homage to Buhari's commitment to the nation, while General Ibrahim Babangida, a predecessor whom Buhari had overthrown, praised him as a moral example and symbol of modest governance.
In a show of respect, current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a seven-day mourning period across the country. National flags will be flown at half-mast beginning Sunday, with President Tinubu expressing the nation’s desire to honor Buhari's legacy with dignity.
The announcement comes alongside other critical political transitions, reflecting the ongoing dynamism of Nigeria's political landscape during this period of national grief.