Tinubu, top political leaders set to attend Buhari’s burial in Daura today

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and an array of Nigeria’s past and present political leaders are expected to gather today in Daura, Katsina State, for the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London on Sunday evening.

According to sources from the Presidency, Buhari’s body will arrive in Nigeria by midday Monday, accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, who were dispatched by President Tinubu to oversee the return of the late leader’s remains from the United Kingdom.

The burial is set to take place in Buhari’s hometown of Daura and will follow Islamic funeral rites.

A senior Presidency official stated, “The burial is tomorrow (Monday). The body will be brought mid hours and will transported straight to Daura for burial.”

While it remains unclear which African leaders will attend the funeral, the Presidency expects the arrival of West African heads of state and other dignitaries.

Many are anticipated to meet with President Tinubu later in the day, following his return to the country just hours before Buhari’s death was announced.

Tinubu Pays Tribute, Declares National Mourning

In a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu officially announced Buhari’s death and directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast for seven days in honour of the late leader.

An emergency Federal Executive Council (FEC) session is scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, in Buhari’s memory.

In a personal tribute, Tinubu described Buhari as a statesman, patriot, and soldier. He wrote, “President Buhari was to the very core, a patriot, a soldier, a statesman.

His legacy of service and sacrifice endures.” He highlighted Buhari’s commitment to national unity, his fight against corruption, and his discipline in public service.

Tributes Flow from Across Nigeria

Reactions have poured in from all corners of the country. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo expressed deep sorrow, calling Buhari a fellow patriot and lamenting that his wisdom would be missed at a time when Nigeria faces multiple challenges.

Former military president Ibrahim Babangida shared an emotional tribute, recalling their days as coursemates in the military. He praised Buhari’s patriotism, humility, and discipline.

Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo also mourned the late president, remembering their eight years together in government. He described Buhari as a “true patriot” whose legacy was defined by integrity and national service.

Governors, Lawmakers, and National Figures React

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), through Chairman AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq, stated that Buhari was a man of character, humility, and moral courage. APC governors, led by Hope Uzodimma, and Northern Governors, led by Gombe Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, paid glowing tributes to the former leader.

Other governors, including Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Uba Sani (Kaduna), Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Monday Okpebholo (Edo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), and Seyi Makinde (Oyo), highlighted Buhari’s lifelong dedication to service, discipline, and honesty.

Legislative leaders such as Senate Deputy President Barau Jibrin, former Senate President Ahmad Lawan, and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas also acknowledged Buhari’s incorruptibility, selflessness, and enduring impact on Nigeria.

Party Leaders, Statesmen, and Civil Society Pay Homage

Political figures such as former governors Simon Lalong, Ahmed Makarfi, and Aliyu Wamakko lauded Buhari’s commitment to national unity and development.

The Arewa Consultative Forum, Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and other groups described the late president as a leader who embodied national service, integrity, and dedication.

Legacy of Service and Discipline

Buhari served as Nigeria’s military Head of State from 1984 to 1985 and as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023.

President Tinubu vowed that the Federal Government would organize a dignified funeral that reflects Buhari’s towering contributions to the nation.

“We honour his service. We reflect on his legacy. And we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul,” Tinubu said.

As Daura prepares to lay one of its most prominent sons to rest, the nation unites in mourning a man who shaped Nigeria’s contemporary political history.