…..as flags are flown at half-mast in tribute
President Bola Tinubu on Sunday dispatched his Vice, Kashim Shettima to London to oversee the transportation of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari’s remains back to Nigeria.
The immediate past President, was confirmed dead in London at about 4:30pm following a prolonged illness.
Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to President, Bayo Onanugu in a statement said President Tinubu has spoken with Mrs. Aishat Buhari, the former President’s widow and offered his deep condolences.
“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,” Onanuga said.
A statement by the family signed by his former media aide, Malam Garba Shehu, said that the elder statesman died at a clinic in the United Kingdom.
The brief statement read: “Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Raji’un. The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London. May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus, Amin.”
“Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari served as Nigeria’s Head of State between December 1983 and August 1985 following a military coup, and later returned to power as a democratically elected president in 2015, serving two consecutive terms until 2023.
“Buhari was known for his anti-corruption stance, infrastructural development initiatives, and efforts to combat insecurity, even as his administration faced criticism on economic and human rights issues.
“Meanwhile tributes have begun pouring in from across the country and beyond, with many remembering him for his discipline, integrity, and influence in shaping Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the family,” Garba said.
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.
President Tinubu has ordered flags flown at half-staff as a mark of respect for the departed leader.
