By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka
Abuja
Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the death of his predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in London at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness.
According to a statement from the Statehouse, President Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the United Kingdom to accompany President Buhari’s body back to Nigeria.
In a phone call to Mrs. Aisha Buhari, the former President’s widow, President Tinubu offered his deep condolences. As a mark of respect for the departed leader, President Tinubu has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff.
President Buhari served Nigeria as President from 2015 to 2023 and previously as military head of state from January 1984 to August 1985. His passing marks the end of an era in Nigerian politics, and tributes are expected to pour in from various quarters.
Similarly, Deputy Senate President Barau I Jibrin, has condoled with Nigerians on the passing of the former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Senator Barau described President Buhari as an untiring promoter of peace and unity in Nigeria, with a clear vision for the country’s progress. He praised the late leader’s discipline, resilience, and patriotism, noting that he was a towering figure in Nigerian history.
The Deputy Senate President’s statement, signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, expressed sadness over the loss of a significant national figure. Senator Barau prayed for the late President’s soul to rest in peace, citing the Islamic phrase “Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un” (We belong to Allah and to Him, we shall return).
