Muhammadu Buhari, former President of Nigeria, was laid to rest yesterday in the backyard of his home in Daura, northern Katsina State.
The 82-year-old, who led Africa’s most populous country from 2015 to 2023, died on Sunday in a London hospital after battling an undisclosed illness.
Buhari was one of only two former military rulers in Nigeria to return to power through democratic elections.
His rise began in the 1980s as a military leader following a coup, and he later made a political comeback by defeating incumbent Goodluck Jonathan in the 2015 presidential election.
In Daura, hundreds of mourners gathered, chanting “Sai Baba”—a popular nickname used affectionately by his supporters—as they watched his coffin, draped in Nigeria’s green and white national flag, being lowered into the ground.
The casket had arrived earlier at Katsina airport, where it was received with full military honours, including a 21-gun salute.
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President Bola Tinubu, government officials, and crowds dressed in traditional Muslim attire were present to pay their respects before the body was flown to Daura, around 80 kilometres away.
President Tinubu has declared seven days of national mourning and announced a public holiday on Tuesday in Buhari’s honour.
Buhari’s tenure was defined by both praise and controversy. Supporters admired his austere personal lifestyle and his strong anti-corruption stance.
However, his presidency was also marked by economic downturns, currency instability, declining oil revenues, and widespread insecurity.
Despite mixed reviews of his legacy, Buhari maintained a loyal following, especially in the predominantly Muslim north, where he remained a deeply influential figure until his death.
