Nation Mourns as Tinubu Orders Flags at Half-Mast, Sends Shettima to Escort Body
Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Dies at 82 in London Clinic
LONDON, UK – Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari has passed away at the age of 82.
The former military ruler and two-term civilian president died on Sunday at a London clinic, where he had been receiving treatment. His death was confirmed in a brief statement released by his longtime spokesman and former special adviser, Garba Shehu.
“The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London,” Shehu stated Sunday evening.
Although the exact nature of his illness was not disclosed, Buhari had reportedly been under medical care in London for several days before his passing.
Just last week, Shehu had addressed the former president’s condition, describing it as manageable. “Buhari has been discharged. It was not as intense as reported. He was hospitalized, and now he is being cared for. He is in a recovery mode,” Shehu had said.
“Each day, he gets better, but until it’s all over, you can’t say it is over. He looked much better after leaving the office than before he became president. He is 82, he eats healthy, and exercises regularly,” he added.
Muhammadu Buhari served as Nigeria’s democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023, following a historic victory at the polls. Prior to his return to power through the ballot, Buhari had ruled Nigeria as a military Head of State from January 1984 to August 1985, following a coup d’état.
News of his death has sparked a nationwide wave of condolences, particularly from political leaders and global allies.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who succeeded Buhari in 2023 and is widely considered his political protégé, expressed deep sorrow at the news. According to presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu spoke with Buhari’s widow, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, and offered his heartfelt condolences.
In a swift move, Tinubu directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the United Kingdom to accompany the late president’s body back to Nigeria.
“President Tinubu has spoken with Mrs Aishat Buhari, the former President’s widow, and offered his deep condolences,” Onanuga said in a statement.
In a solemn tribute, President Tinubu has also ordered that national flags be flown at half-mast across Nigeria in honour of the late leader.
Further details regarding funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family and government in the coming days. Read More
