By Atoyebi Nike
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially announced the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Saturday in London at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness.
The announcement came through a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. Buhari reportedly passed away at around 4:30 p.m. at a London clinic.
In honour of the late leader, President Tinubu has directed that national flags be flown at half-mast across the country. He has also spoken with the former First Lady, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, to express his condolences to the bereaved family and the people of Katsina State.
As part of state protocols, Vice President Kashim Shettima has been directed to travel to the United Kingdom to accompany Buhari’s body back to Nigeria.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the passing of his predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari,” the statement read. “He has also ordered flags at half-staff as a mark of respect for the departed leader.”
Muhammadu Buhari served as Nigeria’s civilian president from 2015 to 2023 and was previously the country’s military Head of State from January 1984 to August 1985. A retired Major General, Buhari was a dominant figure in Nigeria’s political landscape for over four decades, widely known for his strict discipline, anti-corruption campaign, and spartan lifestyle.
His election in 2015 marked a watershed moment in Nigerian democracy, as he became the first opposition candidate to defeat a sitting president.
Buhari’s passing brings to a close a significant chapter in the nation’s political history, prompting tributes from across Nigeria and beyond.
