Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari has died in London at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness, current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced on Sunday.
According to a statement issued by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Buhari passed away at approximately 4:30 pm local time. President Tinubu has personally spoken with the former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, to extend his condolences.
In a mark of national respect, President Tinubu has ordered that flags be flown at half-mast. He has also directed Vice President Kashim Shettima and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila to travel to the United Kingdom to oversee arrangements and accompany Buhari’s remains back to Nigeria.
Buhari made history by serving as Nigeria’s leader twice: first as a military head of state from 1984 to 1985, and later as an elected president from 2015 to 2023. His death closes a significant chapter in Nigeria’s modern political journey.
Further details about funeral plans are expected in the coming days.
