Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, has begun his final journey home as his remains departed London Tuesday morning aboard a presidential flight, accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima and family members.
The solemn development was confirmed in a statement by Mr. Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the Vice President. He stated that the Vice President was acting on the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, as directed by President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, has departed London for Nigeria in the company of some family members of the late President Muhammadu Buhari,” the statement said.
Buhari, who passed away at 82 after a prolonged illness in a London clinic, will be laid to rest today in his hometown, Daura, Katsina State, according to Islamic rites.
A Federal Government delegation led by top officials has also departed London to join the nation in mourning and to pay final respects.
The return of Buhari’s body signals the end of an era for Nigeria, with tributes pouring in from leaders, citizens, and international figures, hailing him as a patriot who served Nigeria with distinction both as a military ruler and a democratically elected president.
Security has been intensified in Daura ahead of the burial, as the nation prepares to bid farewell to one of its most iconic leaders.
