Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in a London clinic after a prolonged illness.
The news shocked the nation and reignited debates about his controversial legacy.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu promptly declared seven days of national mourning to honour Buhari’s memory.
Flags across Nigeria will fly at half-mast during this period as a mark of respect.
Tinubu’s Mourning Directive and State Funeral Plans
In a condolence message released on Sunday, President Tinubu announced an emergency Federal Executive Council session scheduled for Tuesday.
The session will focus entirely on Buhari’s legacy and honouring the late leader.
Tinubu stated, “I have directed that all national flags fly at half-staff across the country for seven days from today.”
He also confirmed that the federal government will accord Buhari a full state funeral, recognizing his “towering contributions” to Nigeria.
The former president’s burial is slated for Monday in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State.
Buhari’s Death Confirmed by Family and Officials
The death was officially confirmed by Buhari’s former spokespersons, Garba Shehu and Bashir Ahmed, through statements on social media platform X.
Shehu announced, “The family of the former president has announced the passing of Muhammadu Buhari this afternoon in a clinic in London.”
Though the exact illness was not disclosed, reports suggest Buhari had been battling blood cancer or leukemia.
He had been receiving treatment in London since April 2025, initially for a routine check-up before his health deteriorated.
Vice President Shettima ordered to eepatriate Buhari’s remains
Following the announcement, President Tinubu directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to London to oversee the repatriation of Buhari’s body.
This move underscores the administration’s intent to manage the funeral proceedings with the utmost respect and ceremony.
The Controversy Surrounding Buhari’s Legacy
Buhari’s death revives fierce debates about his time in office.
Serving as Nigeria’s president from 2015 to 2023, and previously as a military head of state from 1983 to 1985, Buhari’s tenure was marked by both praise and criticism.
Many Nigerians remember his anti-corruption crusade and efforts to stabilize the economy. However, critics argue that his administration failed to deliver meaningful change.
Security challenges, especially the Boko Haram insurgency and rising banditry, persisted and even worsened in some regions.
His government was also accused of human rights abuses, including the infamous Lekki Tollgate shooting during the #EndSARS protests.
These events left scars that many Nigerians believe Buhari never adequately addressed.
The Mourning: Genuine Respect or Political Posturing?
While President Tinubu’s mourning declaration appears respectful, some Nigerians view it as political theatre.
Buhari’s administration was divisive, and many citizens question whether a full state funeral is warranted given the suffering experienced during his rule.
The timing of the mourning and the grand state funeral plans have sparked controversy.
Critics argue that the government should focus more on addressing ongoing national crises than on ceremonial displays.
Buhari’s Health and Secrecy: A Pattern of Concealment
Throughout his presidency, Buhari’s health was often shrouded in secrecy.
His frequent medical trips to the UK raised questions about transparency and governance.
This pattern continued until his death, fueling rumors and conspiracy theories.
Some Nigerians speculated about the true state of his health, with unverified claims suggesting he was replaced by a body double.
Though these theories lack evidence, they reflect the deep mistrust many feel toward the political elite.
The Burden of a Divided Nation
Buhari’s death comes at a time when Nigeria faces severe economic and security challenges.
His burial in Daura will be a significant event, drawing political figures and citizens alike.
Yet, many Nigerians will attend with mixed emotions mourning the man but questioning the man’s impact on their lives.
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