Former President Muhammadu Buhari

Tributes continue to pour in from across Nigeria and the globe following the death of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, who passed away in London on Sunday, July 13, at the age of 82. Buhari’s remains will arrive in Nigeria later today, and he will be buried tomorrow in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, in accordance with Islamic rites and full state honours.

The late president, a retired major general and Nigeria’s military ruler from 1984 to 1985, returned as a democratically elected president and served two terms from 2015 to 2023. Widely regarded as a symbol of discipline and national integrity, Buhari’s public service legacy spans six decades.

PRESIDENT TINUBU LEADS TRIBUTES

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described Buhari as “a patriot, a soldier, a statesman,” and ordered all national flags flown at half-staff for seven days. He also summoned an emergency Federal Executive Council meeting in honour of the late leader.

“He stood firm through the most turbulent times, leading with quiet strength, profound integrity, and an unshakeable belief in Nigeria’s potential,” Tinubu said, while extending condolences to Buhari’s widow, Aisha, and the entire family.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who is accompanying Buhari’s body back to Nigeria, hailed him as “a moral compass… the archetype of the principled politician” and said Nigeria had lost not just a leader but a national symbol.

MILITARY, POLITICAL, AND GLOBAL STATESMEN REACT

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo expressed deep sorrow, describing Buhari as a “colleague, comrade, and cool patriot” who “played his role as a soldier, administrator, and statesman.”

Former military president General Ibrahim Babangida recalled their bond from 1962 as military cadets, calling Buhari “resolute, principled, humble, and deeply patriotic.”

World Trade Organisation DG Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala shared her disbelief, saying, “Minutes after sending my get-well wishes, I learnt he passed away… I am so very sad.”

Former presidential spokesman Garba Shehu described Buhari as “an incorruptible servant of the people” and said his refusal to accumulate wealth or meddle in post-presidency politics distinguished him from others.
Presidential aide Bashir Ahmad remembered him fondly as “our Baba Buhari,” recalling his warmth, humour, and measured leadership style.

NATIONAL POLITICAL PARTIES PAY RESPECTS

The All Progressives Congress (APC), in a statement signed by National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka, called Buhari “an exemplary patriot” and a “founding pillar of our democracy.” Acting National Chairman Bukar Dalori led the party’s condolences.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), through its spokesperson Debo Ologunagba, acknowledged Buhari’s national service, describing him as “a courageous leader and disciplined military officer.”

Governors including Babagana Zulum (Borno), Monday Okpebholo (Edo), and Dikko Umaru Radda (Katsina) mourned the loss of a national icon, with Radda calling Buhari “Katsina’s most illustrious son.”

REGIONAL AND GLOBAL REACTIONS

Regional blocs, including ECOWAS and the African Union, honoured Buhari’s legacy.

ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray described Buhari as “a distinguished statesman” whose contributions advanced democracy and regional integration in West Africa.

African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf remembered him as “a principled and resolute Pan-Africanist” who championed African-led solutions and good governance.

Diplomatic missions also extended condolences:

• The United States Mission in Nigeria acknowledged Buhari’s “discipline and commitment to restoring integrity to public office.
• The Chinese Embassy praised his contributions to “China–Nigeria relations and Nigeria’s unity.”
• India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Buhari’s “warmth and wisdom” deepened India–Nigeria ties
• Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali sent “sincere condolences to the people and government of Nigeria.”

A NATION PREPARES TO SAY GOODBYE

Buhari’s death marks the end of an era. From chairing the Petroleum Trust Fund to defeating an incumbent in 2015—a historic first in Nigeria’s democratic history—Buhari shaped political discourse for decades.

As Nigeria prepares for his burial tomorrow in Daura, tributes continue to reflect a man who, for better or worse, remained consistent in principle and style.

May his soul rest in perfect peace.