By John Moses
Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has been laid to rest at his private residence in Daura, Katsina State, amid tears, prayers and tributes from family, political leaders and thousands of mourners.
The funeral was attended by President Bola Tinubu, Vice-President Kashim Shettima, former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, and Niger Republic’s Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine. Other dignitaries included service chiefs, former governors, captains of industry, Islamic clerics, and representatives from neighbouring countries.
As part of the final military honours, a joint armed forces team fired a 21-gun salute before the former president was interred. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, paid tribute to Buhari, describing him as a disciplined soldier known for his honesty, integrity, and dedication to Nigeria.
Earlier, Buhari’s remains were welcomed to Daura by large crowds chanting prayers and seeking divine mercy. Family members gathered briefly around his body to offer final prayers before burial.
Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s military leader from 1984 to 1985, returned to power through democratic elections in 2015 and was re-elected in 2019. His presidency was noted for anti-corruption initiatives, infrastructure projects and mixed results on security and economic challenges.
