DAURA, Nigeria — Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who died Sunday at the age of 82 in a London clinic, will be buried on Tuesday at his hometown private residence in Daura, Katsina State, according to Governor Dikko Radda.
Buhari’s body departed London Tuesday morning aboard a Nigerian presidential aircraft and is expected to arrive in Katsina around noon. A brief military reception will be held at the airport, where President Bola Tinubu will receive the remains before they are transported to Daura, 80 kilometers from the state capital.
Speaking to press, Radda confirmed that the burial would take place at 2 p.m. local time in accordance with Islamic traditions. “He will be laid to rest at home in Daura where friends, family, and mourners are already gathered,” Radda said.
The former head of state passed away after a short illness. Vice President Kashim Shettima, who accompanied the body from London, did not provide further medical details.
Though Buhari served two full terms as Nigeria’s elected president and was also a former military ruler, officials clarified there would be no formal state funeral. Islamic scholars confirmed that his burial would follow religious customs focused on simplicity and speed.
President Tinubu declared a seven-day period of national mourning, with all government flags flying at half-staff from Sunday. He is expected to attend the funeral prayer in Daura. In a public statement, Tinubu said Nigeria would honor Buhari “with dignity and deep respect.”
Tributes from across the political spectrum have poured in for Buhari, who made history in 2015 by defeating incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan. Jonathan remembered Buhari as “selfless in duty and deeply patriotic.”
General Ibrahim Babangida, who overthrew Buhari in a 1985 military coup, also praised the late leader. “Even in retirement, he remained a moral compass and an example of modest leadership,” Babangida said.
Former president Buhari is one of only two Nigerians to lead the country both as a military officer and a civilian president. His political career was marked by a reputation for personal austerity and strong-handed leadership.
The Nigerian government declared Tuesday a public holiday in his memory. Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said the day was meant to reflect on Buhari’s legacy and lifelong dedication to public service.
As mourners continue to arrive at his compound in Daura, security has been heightened around the area. The final rites are expected to draw large crowds of citizens and dignitaries, marking the end of an era for a leader who shaped Nigeria’s modern history.
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