The remains of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday in a London hospital, will be buried on Tuesday in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State.
Buhari passed away at 4:30pm after a prolonged illness. He was 82.
The Nigerian Air Force has conveyed his body aboard a military aircraft from London, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima and top government officials.
According to Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will personally receive the remains of the former President in Katsina.”
“Upon arrival, a brief military ceremony will be held at the airport before the body is moved to Daura,” Idris said.
The Jana’iza (funeral prayer) and burial will follow at Buhari’s personal residence, where a section of the garden has been prepared as his final resting place.
Security operatives have surrounded the compound, with men of the DSS, Nigerian Army, Police, and NSCDC stationed around the vicinity.
Only family members and designated officials are allowed near the grave site.
Twenty-five Federal Executive Council members have been directed to remain in Daura till Wednesday for the third-day prayers.
Life After Power and Personal Legacy
Since leaving office in 2023, Buhari had lived quietly in Daura.
Domestic workers described him as gentle, compassionate, and fond of animals. “His love and care for pets and other animals will always be remembered,” one said.
He kept bulls, camels, horses, foreign cows, and three tortoises aged over 28 years. Birds also found welcome in his garden.
Workers said Buhari often attended family events, visited the sick, and offered comfort.
“Our late boss not only provided employment but was a guardian to our families,” a staff member shared.
Neighbour Ismaila Ibrahim said, “He was humble and disciplined till the end. For over 50 years, we lived peacefully together here in Daura.”
Hajiya Bilkisu Isah added, “His simplicity and excellent character will always be remembered in this community.”
Former Senate President Ahmad Lawan, who visited the family, said, “His 2015 election was based on his exemplary record in public service and integrity.”
During Lahasarh prayers at the mosque, heartfelt du’as were offered.
State Funeral Arrangements and Global Tributes
President Tinubu declared Tuesday a public holiday and announced seven days of national mourning. Flags are flying at half-mast across Nigeria and missions abroad.
An inter-ministerial committee led by SGF George Akume is handling funeral logistics.
“Condolence Registers will be opened in all ministries and agencies,” said Idris. Additional books are available at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tinubu International Conference Centre.
Ex-President Goodluck Jonathan and Ghana’s former President Nana Akufo-Addo visited Shettima in London to pay their respects.
Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, who was in the same hospital as Buhari, said: “We were together before I got discharged. When I heard the news, I rushed back to help with arrangements.“
He added, “Politics in Nigeria will certainly change, I hope for the better.“
Abdulsalami praised Buhari’s honesty and war against corruption. “General Buhari is a gentleman… exceptionally honest. You can trust Buhari with anything and he won’t betray you.”
He described Buhari’s 1984 ‘War Against Indiscipline’ as a campaign that made Nigeria cleaner and more respectful.
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