President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement on Sunday, President Tinubu confirmed that Buhari passed away earlier in the day at a hospital in the United Kingdom.
Tinubu described the deceased as a patriot, soldier, and statesman whose life was marked by service, integrity, and unwavering dedication to Nigeria.
He said, “President Buhari was to the very core, a patriot, a soldier, a statesman. His legacy of service and sacrifice endures. He served Nigeria with unwavering dedication, first as a military leader from January 1984 to August 1985, and later as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023. Duty, honour, and a deep commitment to the unity and progress of our nation defined his life.”
Tinubu lauded the late leader’s commitment to national unity and progress, highlighting his efforts in fighting corruption, championing public service discipline, and placing the country above personal interests throughout his career.
He said, “ He stood firm through the most turbulent times, leading with quiet strength, profound integrity, and an unshakable belief in Nigeria’s potential. He championed discipline in public service, confronted corruption head-on, and placed the country above personal interest at every turn.”
President Tinubu extended his condolences to Buhari’s wife, Aisha, their children, the wider Buhari family, as well as the people of Katsina State and the Daura Emirate.
In honour of Buhari’s passing, the president announced several national mourning measures such as all national flags will be flown at half-mast for seven days beginning Sunday, July 13.
An emergency Federal Executive Council (FEC) session will also be held on Tuesday, dedicated to honouring Buhari’s legacy, and the Federal Government will accord full state honours in line with Buhari’s status and contributions to the nation.
The president prayed for the deceased saying, “May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus.”
“And may his life continue to inspire generations of Nigerians to serve with courage, conviction, and selflessness.”
The former president’s body is expected to be flown back to Nigeria from London accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
