By: Daure David
Nigeria is in mourning following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, who passed away on Sunday afternoon in a London clinic at the age of 82. His passing was confirmed by presidential spokesperson Garba Shehu and later announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
President Buhari, a retired Major General, served Nigeria both as a military Head of State from 1983 to 1985 and as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023. He was widely recognized for his anti-corruption stance, his efforts to stabilize the economy, and his commitment to national security.
In response to the news via his social media handle, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, Executive Governor of Bauchi State, expressed profound sorrow, describing Buhari as “a great leader who served Nigeria with commitment and a deep sense of duty.” He offered prayers for the late president, asking Allah to forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.
President Tinubu has ordered national flags to be flown at half-mast and dispatched Vice President Kashim Shettima to the United Kingdom to accompany the remains of the late president back to Nigeria.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in accordance with Islamic rites. Tributes have begun pouring in from across the country, world, reflecting the deep impact Buhari had on Nigeria’s political landscape.
