.Tinubu declares 7 days mourning, directs Shettima to accompany body home
.Ex-President for burial in Daura today
National Flag at half-mast
.OBJ, IBB GEJ, Atiku, Binani, Osinbajo, Obi, ACF, Govs, Okiro, Utomi, Aniebonam, Okonjo-Iweala, AU pay tributes
By Abdulateef Bamgbose, Anthony Ochela, Abuja, Abdul Salaudeen, Ilorin, Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta, Samson Alfa, Minna, Rahila Abdullahi, Kaduna and Charles Onyekwere, Enugu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared seven days of national mourning following the death of his predecessor, ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, who died at the age of 82 yesterday in London at about 4.30 pm, following a prolonged illness.
Besides, Tinubu has spoken with Mrs Aisha Buhari, the former President’s widow and offered his deep condolences and directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to proceed to the United Kingdom to accompany President Muhammadu Buhari’s body back to Nigeria and summoned an emergency session of the Federal Executive Council, FEC, for tomorrow to pay tribute to the deceased former Nigerian leader.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the late President’s children, and the entire Buhari family, as well as to the people and traditional rulers of Daura in Katsina State.
In statement personally signed by himself, the President expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Buhari as “a patriot, a soldier, a statesman” whose life was marked by duty, sacrifice, and unwavering service to the nation.
According to him, “President Buhari was to the very core, a patriot, a soldier, a statesman. His legacy of service and sacrifice endures,” Tinubu stated. “He served Nigeria with unwavering dedication, first as a military leader from January 1984 to August 1985, and later as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023″.
All national flags be flown at half-staff for seven days beginning immediately, Tinubu added that “As a mark of respect to our former leader, I have directed that all national flags fly at half-staff across the country for seven days from today”.
He praised Buhari for his anti-corruption efforts and commitment to public service reform, noting that he “placed the country above personal interest at every turn”.
“Buhari championed discipline in public service, confronted corruption head-on, and placed the country above personal interest at every turn”,he said.
Tinubu, also described Buhari as a leader who guided the nation through difficult times “with quiet strength, profound integrity, and an unshakable belief in Nigeria’s potential”.
“In this moment of national mourning, I extend my deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Aisha, with whom I have been in constant touch, his children, the entire Buhari family, and all who knew and loved him.
“I also extend my condolences to the government and people of Katsina State, most especially the people and traditional leaders of Daura Emirate”, Tinubu said.
The Federal Government would organise a befitting state funeral to reflect Buhari’s towering legacy, he stated.
“We honour his service. We reflect on his legacy. And we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul. May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus. And may his life continue to inspire generations of Nigerians to serve with courage, conviction, and selflessness”, Tinubu said.
Nation In Mourning
Buhari Tried His Best To Transform Nigeria – Obasanjo
Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has described the ex-President, Gen. Muhammudu Buhari ,Retd, as patriot who tried his best to give the country the required progress and development.
Obasanjo, in a statement made available to newsmen in Abeokuta, yesterday, said he received the news of his death with heavy hearts.
He said: “It is with heavy heart, that I received this afternoon, of the passing of a colleague , a comrade , a cool patriot, General Muhammadu Buhari, who as a soldier , he played his role as a soldier. As an administrator, he played his role as an administrator , as a statesman, he played his role as a statesman, of course.”
“At a time like this , we need the totality, of the experience and what I may call statesmanship of all those who have had opportunities to run the affairs of this country to get us out of the situation we are in , he will be surely missed. May his soul rest in perfect peace”, Obasanjo added.
Similarly, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, expressed profound shock at the demise of former President Muhammadu Buhari, saying that news of the transition of the former military and civilian leader left him devastated.
Abiodun, in a statement issued in Abeokuta, Ogun State, said even though death is a bill that all mortals must pay, the death of the former president came as a rude shock.
He described Buhari as a gallant soldier and patriot whose commitment to the Nigerian cause shone through while he held sway as military Head of State, and later as democratically elected president.
He said: “Former President Muhammadu Buhari dead? It is hard to process this news at the moment. We had expected, like he did in the past, that he would pull through at this time, but we take profound comfort in the fact that he left great imprints on the sands of time.
“Both as military Head of State and as civilian president, Buhari made accountability his watchword.
“ Although his time as military Head of State had the usual elements of leadership style that is not acceptable in a democracy, it is significant that Buhari was able to reinvent himself and govern Nigeria for two terms as elected president, recording monumental achievements in infrastructure, from road to rail.
“As a person, he was straightforward, affable, witty, and of a humble disposition. Even his severest critics will readily admit that he did not seek public office for personal gratification.
“President Buhari was particularly fond of Ogun State, where he began his life as a young officer, and was excited to inaugurate and celebrate the achievements of our administration.
“I commiserate with his immediate family, including his beloved wife, Hajia Aisha Buhari, the people and Government of Katsina State, the Daura Emirate, and the Nigerian Army.
“I commiserate with President Bola Tinubu who has lost a friend and comrade in the struggle for a better Nigeria. May Almighty Allah grant him Aljanat Firdaus.
He Was a Brother, Friend, Patriot —IBB
Nigeria’s former Military President, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida ,Retd, in his reaction said he was saddened with the demise of former President Muhammadu Buhari in a London hospital, yesterday.
Babangida, ”It is with a deeply heavy heart that I received the news of the passing of my friend, my brother, my course mate, and a fellow soldier in the journey of nationhood — President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR.
“Our paths crossed in 1962 when we both joined the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna.
“From those early days, Muhammadu stood out — quiet yet resolute, principled yet humble, deeply patriotic and fiercely loyal to Nigeria.
“Through the years, we shared trenches and trials, dreams and disappointments, victories and moments of reflection”.
“Our bond was forged not only by military training, but by a shared commitment to the ideals of service, discipline, and love for country”.
According to IBB, in the course of their long careers, fate placed both of them in leadership at different times, and in very different circumstances.
He added, “But in all, Buhari remained consistent in his belief in integrity, order, and the dignity of public office.
“He served Nigeria with a deep sense of responsibility and unwavering commitment, even when the road was lonely or misunderstood.
“Beyond the uniform and the public glare, I knew him as a deeply spiritual man, a man who found solace in faith, and who carried himself with the humility of someone who believed in a higher calling.
“We may not have agreed on everything — as brothers often don’t but I never once doubted his sincerity or his patriotism”.
The former military president said the passing of Buhari yesterday was not just the loss of a former Head of State, or a two-term civilian President.
“It is the loss of a symbol a man whose life embodied the transition of Nigeria from the old guard to the new republic.
“A man who, even in retirement, remained a moral compass to many, and an example of modesty in public life.
“To his beloved wife Aisha, his children, grandchildren, and the nation he loved and served I extend my deepest condolences.
“May Allah ,SWT, in His infinite mercy, forgive his shortcomings, accept his deeds, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.
“May his legacy endure, Ameen.”
Nigeria Has Lost One Of Foremost Leaders – Jonathan
Former President, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, has expressed grief over the death of ex-president Muhammadu Buhari.
Jonathan, in a statement described Buhari as a notable leader, patriot, and elder statesman who served our beloved nation as both a military Head of State and President, to the best of his abilities.
The statement reads, “It is with a heavy heart and profound sense of national loss that I received the news of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari who died at the age of 82.
“President Buhari was a notable leader, patriot, and elder statesman who served our beloved nation as both a military Head of State and President, to the best of his abilities.
“He will be remembered as a courageous leader, a disciplined officer, and a committed public servant who made considerable contributions towards the peace and progress of our dear nation.
“The late President was deeply admired across the strata of society for his decency, integrity and exemplary life of service. As a leader, he was selfless in his commitment to his duty and served the country with character and a deep sense of patriotism.
“In his passing, Nigeria has lost one of its foremost leaders, and I have lost a respected colleague and elder. His legacy will continue to endure in the hearts of all who value sacrifice, integrity, perseverance and devotion to national ethos.
“On behalf of my family and the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the good people of Katsina State and all Nigerians who mourn this great loss.
“May Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Jannatul Firdaus”.
Nigeria Has Lost A True Patriot -Osinbajo
Former Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo has said that Nigeria lost a true patriot with the death of Ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, whose life was marked by discipline, honesty, and a deep commitment to national service.
In a statement signed Osinbajo, who was vice to Buhar said he and his wife, Dolapo, were deeply saddened by the loss.
According to him, “Dolapo and I received, with profound sadness, the news of the passing of His Excellency, former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon”.
“Nigeria has lost a true patriot, a man whose life was marked by unyielding devotion to the nation he loved. President Buhari’s legacy will endure as a testament to the nobility of public service, defined by honesty, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the public good”, Osinbajo recalled.
He then prayed for comfort for the Buhari family and all Nigerians mourning the former leader.
…Death National Tragedy, Says Atiku, Binani
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, yesterday described the passing away of former President Muhammadu Buhari as a national tragedy.
Atiku’s reaction to Buhari’s death was made in his social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
“His death is not just a loss to his immediate family and the people of Daura, it is a profound national tragedy.
“Nigeria has lost a statesman who bore the burdens of leadership in both turbulent and triumphant times and whose legacy will be remembered for generations to come.
“I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, a man whose life was defined by unflinching patriotism, stoic discipline, and a lifelong commitment to the sovereignty and unity of our great nation.
“President Buhari was not just a former Head of State, he was a symbol of Nigeria’s resilience. From the battlefield to the corridors of power, he served with the kind of austere conviction and firm belief in duty that marked him as a soldier of principle and a leader of formidable will.
“To his beloved family, I offer my deepest condolences. I pray for strength and comfort in this time of grief. To the people of Katsina State and the entire nation, I mourn with you.
“May we all take solace in the knowledge that he gave his life to the service of Nigeria and never wavered in his belief in her promise.
May Allah, the Most Merciful, forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest in Aljannah Firdaus”, he said.
Prominent Nigerians and global figures have taken to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express their grief and pay tribute following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Similarly, Senator Aishatu Binani, described late Buhari as a leader and statesman in the true sense of it, “our mentor who also gave me the fatherly shoulder to lean on in my times of need.
“Due to the death of the statesman, Sen. Binani announce the suspension of scheduled programme for tomorrow Monday in Yola, saying a new date would be communicated as the country mourn the exit of an enigma.
“While I regret all the inconveniences that the suspension of the programme may cause our supporters, kindly join me in praying for the repose of the departed soul of our dear Father and former President, Baba Buhari.
“Baba lived a life of service to Nigeria and beyond. I am shocked and saddened beyond words. He was a leader and statesman in the true sense of it, our mentor who also gave me the fatherly shoulder to lean on in my times of need”, she added.
His Death Provides Solemn Moment – Obi
Labour Party Presidential candidate in the 2023 General Elections, Mr Peter Obi, has expressed sadness over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari at 82, saying “His death provides a solemn moment, not just for his family and close associates, but for our nation as a whole”.
Obi, a former governor of Anambra State in his condolence message posted on his X handle, expressed shock over the demise of the former president.
According to him, he received the very sad news of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari in London.
“President Buhari has always comported himself in a dignified manner as a leader.
“To his wife, children, extended family, and to all Nigerians I extend my deepest condolences”, he said.
He prayed that may Almighty Allah, Most Gracious and Most Merciful, forgive President Buhari’s shortcomings, reward his efforts in service to the nation, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.
…Towering Statesman, Symbol Of Loyalty For Downtrodden -ACF
Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria’s immediate past President,. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari ,Retd.
The forum described him as a towering statesman and a symbol of loyalty for the Nigerian downtrodden, particularly in the North.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tanko Muhammad-Baba, the ACF said the former president’s contributions to Nigeria spanned nearly six decades
According to ACF, Buhari has left behind a legacy that would continue to evoke both admiration and analysis.
“The late retired General was a recurring decimal in policy and governance circles in Nigeria for nearly the past 60 years”, Muhammad-Baba said.
He said that his roles from a Military Governor to the Minister of Petroleum Resources to Military Head of State, and later twice-elected President, reflected a lifetime of national service shaped by discipline and resolve.
The ACF acknowledged that Buhari’s tenure at various points in Nigeria’s complex political history included “momentous and often controversial episodes”.
It stressed that no Nigerian leader in recent memory commanded such loyalty among the common people, especially across Northern Nigeria.
“There is no Nigerian alive today that enjoyed the love and loyalty of the Nigerian downtrodden like the late President Muhammadu Buhari”, the forum stated.
The ACF said his life, service, and leadership would remain a subject of public debate for years to come a reflection of the complex legacy he leaves behind.
The forum extended its condolences to the Buhari family, the Government and people of Katsina State, the Federal Government, and all Nigerians who share in the loss.
“ACF mourns retired Gen. Buhari and prays for the peaceful repose of his soul in Aljannatul Firdaus”, it added.
…Death Significant Depletion Of Africa’s All-time Great Men –NGF
Nigeria Governors’ Forum, NGF, has described the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari as a significant depletion in the ranks of Africa’s all-time great men.
The forum, in a statement issued in Ilorin, yesterday by its chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, expressed a profound sense of loss and sadness at Buhari’s death in London yesterday.
AbdulRazaq, said Buhari was not just a former president or military leader; “He was a national political leader with profound moral courage, character, and amazing sense of duty.
“’He would be remembered for his humility, strategic patience, and modest lifestyle”.
The NGF Chairman, who is also the Kwara Governor, condoled President Bola Tinubu on the painful loss of his dear friend, compatriot, immediate predecessor, and fellow party man.
“Our thoughts are also with the former First Lady, Mrs Aishah Buhari, and the rest of the family at this difficult moment.
“Similarly, we commiserate with Governor Dikko Umar Radda and the good people of Katsina State on this very sad development.
“We ask Allah, who gives and takes life, to ease the account of his servant, Buhari, widen and lighten up his grave, and admit him to al-jannah Firdaus.
“We beseech Allah to bless the family and the nation with the patience to go through this phase”, AbdulRazaq said.
…Great Loss, Says Northern Govs
Northern States Governors’ Forum, NSGF, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing it as “a great national loss”.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya, said this in a condolence message in Gombe, yesterday.
Yahaya, described Buhari as a symbol of integrity, discipline, and patriotism, who served Nigeria with conviction both as a military leader and a democratically elected president.
He said Buhari’s leadership embodied sacrifice and a strong commitment to unity and good governance, adding that his death leaves a significant vacuum in national life.
While symphatising with Buhari’s family, the Daura Emirate Council, the Katsina State Government, and Nigerians, Yahaya prayed Allah to grant him eternal rest.
Progressives Govs’ Forum Express Deep Sorrow
Progressives Governors Forum has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The Forum also consoled with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian people, and the late President’s family.
In a condolence message personally signed by the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, the governors said they received the news of former President Buhari’s passing with profound shock and sadness.
This is contained in a statement issued yesterday by lmo State commissioner for information and strategy, Declan Mbadiwe Emelumba and made available to journalists in Owerri.
Uzodimma stated that the Forum extends its heartfelt condolences to all Nigerians and the family of the late former President, describing his death as a monumental loss not just to his immediate family, but to the nation at large.
“With the passing of President Buhari, Nigeria bids farewell to one of its most emblematic figures of honest and dedicated leadership; an era shaped by integrity, patriotism, and uncommon sacrifice”, Uzodimma wrote.
He described the late President as an unparalleled patriot who, after a distinguished career in the military, returned through democratic means to continue serving the country with honour and commitment.
Governor Uzodimma recalled Buhari’s notable track record in office, especially his determined stance against corruption and indiscipline, principles he upheld both as a military Head of State and as a democratically elected President.
He remarked that Buhari’s legacy as a moral compass for transparent and accountable governance will continue to inspire generations of leaders across Nigeria and Africa.
While mourning with President Tinubu, Nigerians, and the Buhari family, Governor Uzodimma prayed for the peaceful repose of the late President’s soul.
Okiro, Utomi, Aniebonam Pay Tribute
Former Inspector-General of Police, Mr Mike Okiro, in a telephone interview with NAN in Lagos, described the death of former president Buhari as unfortunate, especially at a time the nation needed him most.
Okiro, who served as Chairman of the Police Service Commission during Buhari’s administration, said Nigeria had lost a great leader.
“Buhari was firmly against all forms of corruption and worked tirelessly to rid Nigeria of crime through the security agencies.
“He will be fondly remembered for his uncompromising stance against crime and corruption”, Okiro said.
Similarly, political economist Prof. Pat Utomi, who expressed deep sorrow over Buhari’s death, recalled a striking coincidence involving the late president.
“It’s ironical that I was with Buhari in his home in Kaduna, discussing the challenges of nation-building in Nigeria, when he received a call announcing the death of former President Shehu Yar’Adua.
“And today, I was in the company of presidential candidate Mr Peter Obi, having a similar conversation, when the news of Buhari’s death came in”, Utomi said.
He expressed his condolences to the former president’s family and called for national reflection.
“I wish fortitude to his family and hope his passing will lead us all to a critical examination of our consciences about how we commit to nation building.
“Buhari will probably be remembered best for his push for discipline in public life and his stern stance on corruption,” he told NAN on a telephone interview.
Similarly, the Founder of the New Nigeria People’s Party, NNPP, Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, described Buhari as a man who lived a fulfilled life in service to the nation.
Aniebonam, noted that Buhari had the rare privilege of serving as both a military Head of State and an elected President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Buhari did his best for Nigeria, and his contributions to national development and governance will be remembered in the annals of the country’s history”, he said.
Offering prayers for the repose of the former president’s soul, Aniebonam added:
“May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen”.
‘I’m Very Sad’ -Okonjo-Iweala
Director-General, World Trade Organisation, WTO, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari.
Okonjo-Iweala, who described Buhari’s death as “unbelievable,” revealing that the news came moments after she had wished him a speedy recovery.
The former Nigerian Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, “Unbelievable! I did not know just how ill HE President Buhari was and minutes after sending my get well wishes I have just learned that he passed away”, her post on her official X handle.
“I am so very sad. May the Soul of HE @MBuhari rest in perfect peace. My deepest condolences to the entire Buhari family and his close aides and associates”.
AU Commission Mourns Ex-President’s Demise
Chairperson of the African Union Commission, AUC, Mahmoud Youssouf, has expressed condolences to the Federal Government and Nigerian citizens over former President Muhammadu Buhari‘s passing.
Youssouf, made this known in a statement issued yesterday by Mr Nuur Sheekh, the Spokesperson of the Chairperson of AUC.
“On behalf of the AUC and the wider African Union family, the Chairperson conveys his deepest condolences to the Government and people of Nigeria.
“To the bereaved family of late President Buhari during this period of national mourning and collective grief.
“President Buhari will be remembered as a principled and resolute leader who served Nigeria with honour and conviction.
“Throughout his tenure, he remained a committed Pan-Africanist—an advocate for regional integration, good governance and African-led solutions to the continent’s pressing challenges.
“He was a steadfast supporter of multilateral cooperation and a tireless champion of peace and stability across Africa,” Youssouf stated.
The chairperson paid tribute to the life and enduring legacy of the former president, describing him as distinguished statesman.
He saluted his contributions toward the advancement of Africa’s development, unity and voice on the global stage.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Youssouf prayed.
FACT FILE ON MUHAMMADU BUHARI
.He was born into a Muslim family in Daura, Katsina State, North West Nigeria, in 1942.
.Attended the Katsina Provincial Secondary School (now Government College, Katsina) from 1956 to 1961.
.Enlisted into the Nigerian Army in 1961 when he was admitted to the Nigerian Military Training College, Kaduna.
.He was married to Safinatu Yusuf from 1971 to 1988, and Aisha Halilu 1989 till his demise
.He was the first military governor of Borno State in 1976.
.He was a Federal Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources: 1976
.First Chairman, NNPC: 1977
.Military leader (Dec 31, 1983 to Aug 27, 1985) and elected President (May 29, 2015, to May 29, 2023).
.He was Chairman, Petroleum Trust Fund, PTF,: 1994
.Buhari joined politics in 2003, following Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.
.He contested the presidential elections under then All Nigerian Peoples Party, ANPP, Congress for Progressive Change, CPC, and All Progressives Congress, APC, Nigeria’s major opposition party that defeated PDP, in the 2015.
.He contested in 2003, 2007, 2011 and was fourth time lucky in 2015 defeating the then-incumbent President, Goodluck Jonathan.
.He was inaugurated twice as President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in 2015 and 2019.
.He left behind 10 children.
.Muhammadu Buhari was famous for his “I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody”, statement was made shortly after his Inauguration.
