By Our Reporters
Nigeria was thrown into mourning on Sunday, July 13, 2025, following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari at the age of 82.
The ex- President, who governed Nigeria first as a military ruler (1984โ1985) and later as a two-term democratically elected president (2015โ2023), succumbed to a protracted illness at a London hospital.
The news of his passing has triggered an outpouring of grief from across the political spectrum, with President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, former leaders Olusegun Obasanjo, Yemi Osinbajo, and several political and industrial leaders paying glowing tributes to the late statesman.
Buhariโs death marks the end of an era for Nigeria, leaving behind a legacy of austere discipline, anti-corruption campaigns, and a mixed record on economic and security challenges.
President Tinubu Declares 7 Days of National Mourning
In an official State House press release, President Bola Tinubu announced a week-long national mourning period, ordering flags to fly at half-mast and describing Buhari as “a patriot, a soldier, a statesman” whose “legacy of service and sacrifice endures.”
“President Buhari was, to the very core, a man of unwavering dedication to Nigeria,” Tinubu stated. “He stood firm through the most turbulent times, leading with quiet strength, profound integrity, and an unshakable belief in Nigeriaโs potential.
He championed discipline in public service, confronted corruption head-on, and placed the country above personal interest at every turn.”
The president also revealed plans for a state funeral, summoning an emergency Federal Executive Council meeting to finalize arrangements.
Shettima: “Nigeria Has Lost One of Its Greatest Leaders”
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who had recently visited Buhari in London, expressed deep sorrow, calling the late president “one of Nigeriaโs greatest leaders of all time.”
“It is a black Sunday in Nigeria! My heart is overwhelmed by grief,” Shettima lamented. “This loss is too cruel, coming at a time I was anticipating his quick recovery. Great leaders like the late Buhari are very rare to come by in a lifetime.”
He praised Buhariโs “uncompromising stance on unity” and described him as “an archetypal public servant whose life transcended the ordinary.”
Obasanjo: “Buhari Died When Nigeria Needed Him Most
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who had a complex relationship with Buhari, paid a rare emotional tribute, stating:
“Buhari died when Nigeria needed him most. His steadfastness in governance and his later years as an elder statesman were pillars of stability. Despite our political differences, I respected his dedication to Nigeria.”
Obasanjo, who handed over power to Buhari in 1979 after military rule, acknowledged his successorโs resilience, saying:
“He was a man of few words but deep convictions. Nigeria will miss his moral authority.”
Osinbajo: “A True Patriot Who Lived for Nigeria
Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who served under Buhari for eight years, described his former boss as “a true patriot, a man of unyielding devotion to the nation he loved.”
“President Buhariโs legacy will endure as a testament to the nobility of public service, defined by honesty, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the public good,” Osinbajo said.
His wife, Dolapo, added: “We spoke with Hajiya Aisha Buhari and their son Yusuf to express our condolences. This is a loss not just for the family but for all Nigerians.”
Governor Uba Sani: A Moral Compass for Nigeria
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani mourned Buhari as “a moral compass, a father figure, and a steady voice in times of uncertainty.”
“To us, he was more than a leaderโhe was a symbol of Nigeriaโs resilience,” Sani said. “His courage in confronting corruption and insisting on accountability inspired millions.”
He highlighted Buhariโs impact on Northern Nigeria, particularly his interventions in security and education.
Atiku Abubakar: “A Soldier of Principle
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described Buhari as “a symbol of Nigeriaโs resilience,” praising his “austere conviction and firm belief in duty.”
“His death is not just a loss to his immediate family and the people of Daura, it is a profound national tragedy, Atiku stated.
Peter Obi: A Dignified Leader
Labour Party leader Peter Obi extended condolences, praying:
“May Almighty Allah forgive President Buhariโs shortcomings, reward his efforts in service to the nation, and grant him Aljannatul
El-Rufai: My Political Mentor
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai revealed Buhariโs personal influence on his career, calling him “my political mentor.”
“He nudged me to contest for the governorshipโฆ and stood by me to victory. I am profoundly grateful,” El-Rufai wrote.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu: “A Leader of Integrity
Deputy House Speaker Benjamin Kalu hailed Buhariโs “remarkable virtue of integrity,” stating:
“This loss is felt not only by the nation but also by the international community.”
A Nation in Mourning
As tributes pour in from across Nigeria and beyond, Buhariโs death marks the end of an era. His legacyโboth celebrated and debatedโwill remain a defining chapter in Nigeriaโs history.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced shortly, with a state burial anticipated in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State.
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