Tinubu mourns Buhari’s death, orders VP Shettima to follow his remains back from UK

….orders flag be flown halfway

Nigeria is in mourning following the tragic announcement of the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The news was confirmed in a statement from Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who reported that Buhari passed away in London around 4:30 PM on Sunday, July 13, 2025, after battling a prolonged illness.

In response to this devastating loss, President Tinubu directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the United Kingdom immediately to escort the remains of Buhari back to Nigeria.

President Tinubu also personally reached out to Mrs. Aishat Buhari, the late president’s widow, to express his heartfelt condolences during this challenging time.

As a tribute to the former leader, President Tinubu has ordered that national flags across the country be flown at half-mast. “President Tinubu has spoken with Mrs. Aishat Buhari, the widow of the late President, to express his heartfelt condolences,” the statement detailed.

Muhammadu Buhari’s death marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s political landscape. He served as a military Head of State from January 1984 to August 1985 and was later democratically elected as President, serving two terms from 2015 until 2023. His tenure was characterized by various health challenges that often required him to seek medical treatment in the United Kingdom.

In a further demonstration of respect, President Tinubu reiterated the importance of mourning for a leader who played pivotal roles in the nation’s history.

The directive to lower the flags serves as a symbol of respect, honoring Buhari’s contributions during his time in office.