President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially announced the death of his immediate predecessor, former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Saturday in London at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the loss, calling it a moment of national mourning.
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“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the passing of his predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari,” Onanuga stated. “President Buhari died today (Sunday) in London at about 4.30 pm, following a prolonged illness.”
The president has since spoken with the late president’s widow, Mrs. Aishat Buhari, and extended heartfelt condolences to the family.
“President Tinubu has spoken with Mrs Aishat Buhari, the former President’s widow, and offered his deep condolences,” Onanuga said.
In an immediate response to the tragedy, President Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the United Kingdom to oversee arrangements for the repatriation of Buhari’s remains.
“President Tinubu has also ordered Vice President Kashim Shettima to proceed to the United Kingdom to accompany President Muhammadu Buhari’s body back to Nigeria,” the statement revealed.
As a mark of national respect, Tinubu ordered that all flags across the country be flown at half-staff.
“President Tinubu has ordered flags at half-staff as a mark of respect for the departed leader,” Onanuga confirmed.
Born in Daura, Katsina State, Muhammadu Buhari was a central figure in Nigeria’s political landscape for over four decades. He served as the military Head of State from January 1984 to August 1985 and returned to power as a democratically elected president in 2015, serving two consecutive terms before leaving office in 2023.
“Former President Buhari was twice elected Nigeria’s President in 2015 and 2023. He also served as military head of state between January 1984 and August 1985,” Onanuga recounted.
Tributes have begun pouring in from across Nigeria and around the world, celebrating Buhari’s legacy and impact on national governance, anti-corruption efforts, and security reform.
Details of funeral arrangements are expected to be announced upon the return of his remains to Nigeria.
