Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, is dead. He passed away on Sunday afternoon in a hospital in the United Kingdom after a prolonged illness.
His former spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, confirmed the sad development in a statement issued on Sunday.
“The family of the former president has announced the passing on of Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London. May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus,” Shehu said.
In his reaction, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the news as a “national loss,” expressing deep sorrow over the demise of his predecessor.
According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, President Buhari died at about 4:30 pm on Sunday in London.
“President Tinubu has spoken with the widow of the former president, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family,” Onanuga disclosed.
To facilitate arrangements for the repatriation of Buhari’s remains, Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel immediately to the United Kingdom.
“President Tinubu has also ordered Vice President Kashim Shettima to proceed to the United Kingdom to accompany the body of President Muhammadu Buhari back to Nigeria,” the statement added.
As part of a national mourning period, the President has ordered that flags be flown at half-staff across the country in honour of the late statesman.
Further details regarding funeral arrangements are expected to be released by the presidency in due course.
