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Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, has died at the age of 82 in a London clinic. The news of his passing was confirmed on Sunday by his family through his former presidential spokesperson, Garba Shehu, and echoed by his former personal aide, Bashir Ahmad.
In an official statement, Shehu announced:
> “INNA LILLAHI WA INNA ILAIHIRRAJIUUN. The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London. May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus, Amin.”
The statement marked the first formal communication from the Buhari family following widespread reports on social media and major news platforms earlier in the day. Bashir Ahmad also confirmed the news via a post on X (formerly Twitter), further validating the development that has since gripped national attention.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s office has also acknowledged Buhari’s death, expressing condolences and calling for national prayers in honour of the late statesman. Flags across federal institutions are expected to fly at half-mast in the coming days.
Nation Mourns a Soldier-Statesman
Muhammadu Buhari, a retired Major General and former military ruler from 1983 to 1985, returned to power as a democratically elected President in 2015 and served two terms until 2023. His administration was defined by a tough anti-corruption posture, a relentless—though controversial—focus on national security, and sweeping infrastructural ambitions.
Buhari’s health had been a subject of public speculation for years, especially following multiple medical trips abroad during his presidency. Although he largely retreated from public life after leaving office, he remained a highly influential figure within Nigeria’s political landscape.
Tributes and Burial Plans
Tributes have begun pouring in from world leaders, African statesmen, and Nigerians across the political spectrum. Many remember Buhari as a disciplined leader, deeply committed to his vision of national integrity—even as others criticised aspects of his governance, particularly on issues of civil liberties and economic policy.
In accordance with Islamic rites, burial arrangements are expected to be made swiftly, although it remains unclear whether he will be laid to rest in Nigeria or in the United Kingdom.
This marks the end of an era for a man who once declared his resolve to fight corruption “without fear or favour” and pledged to restore Nigeria’s lost global respect.
More details will follow as funeral plans and national tributes are announced.
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