Nigeria mourns the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died Sunday in London at 82. His body will be laid to rest Tuesday in his northern home state of Katsina. The announcement came from Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda.
Buhari, a former military ruler, made history in 2015. He became Nigeria’s first president to unseat an incumbent through the ballot box. His re-election followed four years later, securing a second term.
Vice President Kashim Shettima led a delegation to London Monday. Their purpose was to coordinate the repatriation of the former leader’s remains. Consultations with Buhari’s family confirmed the burial would occur Tuesday in Daura.
Tributes have poured in, including from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi praised Buhari’s wisdom and commitment to India-Nigeria friendship. Buhari garnered devoted support for his anti-corruption stance, particularly in the north.
He embraced a “converted democrat” persona, exchanging military attire for traditional wear. Another former military ruler, Ibrahim Babangida, described him as deeply spiritual. Babangida lauded Buhari’s sincerity and patriotism despite past disagreements.
After leaving office in 2023, Buhari largely remained out of the public eye. His successor, Bola Tinubu, inherited a nation grappling with significant challenges. These include soaring inflation, economic hardship, and widespread insecurity.
Buhari’s supporters revered him as Nigeria’s conscience, known for shunning corruption. Critics, however, viewed him as an “absentee landlord,” often away for medical treatment. His perceived aloofness sometimes felt like abandonment to some.