Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari was laid to rest on Monday in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, amidst an outpouring of grief and solemn tributes from across the nation and the international community. The 81-year-old statesman, who served as Nigeria’s Head of State from 1983 to 1985 and later as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023, passed away on Sunday night after a brief illness.
His body arrived in Daura in the early hours of Monday aboard a Nigerian Air Force aircraft, accompanied by immediate family members, senior military officers, and top government officials. The arrival marked the beginning of a day of mourning and honour, as dignitaries, community leaders, religious figures, and ordinary citizens gathered to pay their final respects to the man many regarded as a symbol of discipline, anti-corruption, and national integrity.
The late Buhari’s body was received at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Airport in Katsina by Governor Dikko Radda and top members of the Katsina State Government. From there, a motorcade escorted the remains to Daura, where thousands lined the streets, chanting prayers and waving Nigerian flags. Security was tight but respectful, as the nation prepared to bid farewell to one of its most consequential leaders.
Traditional Burial in Accordance with Islamic Rites
The burial was conducted according to Islamic rites, following the traditions of the predominantly Muslim northern region. After the Janazah (funeral prayer) at the Daura Central Mosque, Buhari was interred at his family’s private residence. The prayer was led by the Chief Imam of Daura, Sheikh Yusuf Daura, who offered supplications for eternal peace and forgiveness for the departed.
Present at the burial were Vice President Ibrahim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and several serving and former state governors. Former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, and Abdulsalami Abubakar sent in condolence messages, with Obasanjo describing Buhari as “a soldier of conscience and a civilian of uncommon discipline.”
National Flags Fly at Half-Mast
In honour of the former president, the Federal Government declared a three-day national mourning period. Flags across public buildings and military installations were flown at half-mast. President Bola Tinubu, who succeeded Buhari in 2023, expressed deep sorrow in a national address, saying, “Today, Nigeria says goodbye to a man who devoted his life to public service, whose strength lay in his simplicity and unwavering commitment to the unity of our nation.”
President Tinubu added that a national monument would be named in Buhari’s honour and that plans were underway for a memorial lecture series to immortalize his contributions to national development, especially in the areas of anti-corruption, agriculture, infrastructure, and security.
Tributes Across the Country and Beyond
From Kano to Calabar, and from Lagos to Maiduguri, tributes flowed in honour of the late president. The Northern Elders Forum, Arewa Consultative Forum, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Afenifere, and the Ijaw National Congress all issued statements recognising Buhari’s role in stabilising Nigeria’s democratic journey and fighting corruption.
International leaders also expressed their condolences. The African Union described Buhari as “a pillar of African leadership,” while the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres hailed his “dedicated commitment to peacekeeping and regional stability.”
Buhari’s Legacy: Discipline, Patriotism, and Controversy
Born on December 17, 1942, Muhammadu Buhari rose through the ranks of the Nigerian Army, becoming Head of State after a military coup in December 1983. Known for his “War Against Indiscipline” campaign during his military rule, Buhari returned to power in 2015 through the ballot box after multiple failed attempts. His administration focused on anti-corruption, security, and revamping infrastructure.
Though often criticised for perceived authoritarian tendencies and economic hardship during his tenure, Buhari retained a devoted following among Nigerians who admired his austere lifestyle and principled stance on national issues. He was regarded as a rare figure in Nigerian politics who resisted the trappings of wealth and political patronage.
Buhari retired from politics after completing his second term in 2023, retreating to his Daura residence, where he spent his final years quietly, occasionally receiving guests and offering commentary on national affairs.
A Nation in Reflection
As the sun set over Daura on Monday evening, chants of prayer continued in the streets while radio stations across the country aired special tributes, interviews, and reflective music. Buhari’s passing marks the end of an era, not just for the North where he was revered, but for Nigeria as a whole.
Though opinions about his leadership will continue to be debated, what is undeniable is the legacy of a man who left an indelible mark on the country’s political history.
Nigeria, now in mourning, bows its head to honour one of its most recognisable sons — General Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd.), former Head of State, former President, and patriot.
