Buhari’s Demise: Tinubu mourns, sends Shettima, Gbajabiamila to accompany Buhari’s remains of the former President
President Bola Tinubu has announced the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing the development as a national loss.
This was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The president said that “It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that I received the news of the passing of His Excellency, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd), GCFR, my predecessor, who departed this life today, Sunday, July 13, 2025, at a hospital in the United Kingdom.
Onanuga added that Tinubu has since reached out to the bereaved family. “President Tinubu has spoken with Mrs. Aishat Buhari, the former President’s widow and offered his deep condolences,” he stated.
To facilitate preparations and arrangements for the return of the late president’s remains, Onanuga revealed that the president has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima and his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, to travel immediately. “President Tinubu has also ordered Vice President Kashim Shettima and Gbajabiamila to proceed to the United Kingdom to accompany President Muhammadu Buhari’s body back to Nigeria,” he added.
The statement concluded that as part of the nation’s mourning, Tinubu ordered a symbolic tribute, stating, “President Tinubu has ordered flags at half-staff as a mark of respect for the departed leader.”
President Tinubu said that the late Buhari was, to the very core, a patriot, a soldier, and 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.
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.
“In this moment of national mourning, I extend my deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Aisha, with whom I have been in constant touch, his children, the entire Buhari family, and all who knew and loved him.
“I also extend my condolences to the government and people of Katsina State, most especially the people and traditional leaders of Daura Emirate.
“We honour his service. We reflect on his legacy. And we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.
“As a mark of respect to our former leader, I have directed that all national flags fly at half-staff across the country for seven days from today.
“I have also summoned an emergency Federal Executive Council session on Tuesday, dedicated to his honour,” Tinubu said.
