President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially announced the death of his predecessor, former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London at approximately 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, following a prolonged illness.
In a solemn statement released by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the former Nigerian leader and offered heartfelt condolences to Buhari’s widow, Mrs. Aishat Buhari.
As a mark of respect and national mourning, President Tinubu has directed that all national flags be flown at half-mast across the country.
In a significant gesture underscoring Buhari’s stature and legacy, the President has also directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the United Kingdom to personally accompany the late leader’s remains back to Nigeria.
Buhari, who was 81, held office as Nigeria’s democratically elected president for two terms from 2015 to 2023. Prior to that, he served as military Head of State from January 1984 to August 1985, following a coup d’état.
The passing of the former president marks the end of an era for a man often described as austere, principled, and committed to the fight against corruption, even as his tenure faced its share of challenges and controversy.
Further details regarding burial arrangements and national mourning activities are expected to be announced in the coming days.
