Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has died.
His former spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, confirmed the news on Sunday afternoon.
According to Shehu, Buhari died on Sunday at a hospital in the United Kingdom.
In his statement, Shehu said: “The family of the former president has announced the passing of Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London.
May Allah accept him into Aljannatul Firdaus.”
Buhari was 82 years old. He first led Nigeria as a military head of state from January 1984 to August 1985.
In 1994, he was appointed Executive Chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund under General Sani Abacha. He helped manage many infrastructure projects across the country.
He ran for president three times without success, in 2003, 2007, and 2011, before winning the 2015 election under the All Progressives Congress (APC), defeating then, President Goodluck Jonathan.
He was re-elected in 2019 and completed his second term in 2023.
His win in 2015 was a historic moment in Nigeria’s democracy, as it was the first time a sitting president was defeated in an election.
Throughout his life, Buhari received many awards and honors, including:
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Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR)
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Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR)
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Defence Service Medal
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National Service Medal
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Forces Service Star
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Congo Medal
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Global Seal of Integrity
As of now, the family has not announced the burial plans.
Buhari died in London around 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 13, after a long illness.
Buhari served as Nigeria’s president from 2015 to 2023. Before that, he was a military ruler from 1983 to 1985. He was known for fighting corruption and working to fix Nigeria’s economy.
More details about his burial will be shared by the family and will follow Islamic customs.
Other reactions and updates:
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Many leaders, including Peter Obi, Ibori, Wamakko, and Anthony Sani, have mourned Buhari’s death.
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President Tinubu has ordered all national flags to fly at half-staff for seven days in honor of Buhari.
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Senate leaders like Barau, Kalu, and Aregbesola, along with the Northern Coalition, have paid their respects.
Buhari was born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State. He came from a Fulani family and was the 23rd child of his father.
The Presidency also reacted to the news.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, said President Tinubu has spoken to Mrs. Aishat Buhari, the former First Lady, and offered his deep condolences.
Tinubu has also asked Vice President Kashim Shettima to go to the UK and help bring Buhari’s body back to Nigeria.
Buhari ruled Nigeria two times—first as a military leader and later as a democratic president.
Flags will remain at half-staff as a sign of respect for the former leader.
