Breaking news
16 Jul 2025, Wed

Buhari’s Body Reaches Daura Ahead of Burial

The remains of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari arrived in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, on Tuesday afternoon, July 15, 2025, for his burial, following his death in a London clinic on Sunday, July 13, at the age of 82. The body was flown from the United Kingdom aboard a Nigerian Air Force aircraft, landing at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina at approximately 1:59 p.m., before being transported by motorcade to Daura under tight security.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who arrived at the airport to receive the remains, led a solemn procession alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda, and other dignitaries, including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, billionaire Aliko Dangote, and delegates from Niger and Guinea-Bissau. The casket, draped in the Nigerian flag, was carried by a nine-man military team during a ceremonial salute before departing for Daura, where hundreds of mourners lined the 88.6 km route to pay their respects.

The burial, conducted in accordance with Islamic rites, took place at a private gravesite within Buhari’s family compound in Daura, a spot where he often sat, as confirmed by family members. The funeral prayer (Janazah), led by the Chief Imam of Katsina, was attended by a select gathering of family, clerics, and dignitaries, including traditional rulers and former governors. A 21-gun salute marked the final interment, with the Nigerian flag folded and presented to Buhari’s widow, Aisha Buhari, who was comforted by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu.

Fatima Buhari, the late president’s daughter, was visibly emotional as she joined family members at the residence. The Federal Government, which declared Tuesday a public holiday to honor Buhari, described him as “Mai Gaskiya” (the Honest One), lauding his discipline, anti-corruption efforts, and service as military head of state (1983–1985) and president (2015–2023). Tributes from across Nigeria and international leaders, including former British Prime Ministers, highlighted his legacy in African leadership.

📝 Note to Readers:
As Nigeria mourns, Buhari’s burial in Daura reflects a nation united in honoring a complex yet impactful leader. Let us reflect on his contributions and strive for unity and progress.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *