Nigeria has been thrown into mourning following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in a UK hospital. President Bola Tinubu has announced a series of national honours and tributes to commemorate the life and legacy of Buhari, widely regarded as one of the country’s most disciplined and incorruptible leaders.
The shocking news of Muhammadu Buhari’s death reverberated across the nation late Sunday, prompting Tinubu to summon an emergency Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, 2025. In a heartfelt tribute personally signed by the president, Tinubu described Buhari as “a patriot, a soldier, a statesman” whose dedication to Nigeria remained unwavering throughout his life.
“As a mark of respect to our former leader, I have directed that all national flags fly at half-staff across the country for seven days from today,” Tinubu announced. He added, “We honour his service. We reflect on his legacy. And we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul. May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Al‑Jannah Firdaus.”
Buhari, who ruled Nigeria first as a military leader from 1984 to 1985 and later as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023, was praised by Tinubu for leading the nation “through the most turbulent times” with quiet strength and integrity. The president highlighted Buhari’s relentless fight against corruption, noting how he “placed the country above personal interest at every turn.”
A nation reflects on a towering legacy
Tributes poured in from across Nigeria following Muhammadu Buhari’s death, with former Minister of State for Transportation, Prince Ademola Adegoroye, describing him as “disciplined, visionary, and incorruptible.” In his statement titled “Tall in Life, Tall in Death, Every Inch a Leader; Good Night President Buhari,” Adegoroye recalled Buhari’s remarkable discipline during long FEC meetings, including an instance when Buhari sat through an eight-hour meeting without taking a single break.
“Unlike most of us Ministers who would excuse ourselves two or three times during long meetings, President Buhari would not get up once,” Adegoroye noted, reflecting on the former leader’s extraordinary perseverance.
During his brief tenure, Adegoroye said Buhari supported key projects that remain transformational for Ondo State: the commencement of the Akure–Ado road project and approval for the Ondo Deep Seaport. “These were landmark achievements for my people, and I will forever be grateful,” he added.
Adegoroye further praised Buhari’s contentment and honesty, calling on Nigeria’s current and future leaders to draw inspiration from his life. “He will go down in history as probably the most honest Nigerian that ever ruled this country,” he concluded, praying for the repose of Buhari’s soul.
A weekend of double loss for Nigeria
The weekend also brought news of the death of another iconic figure, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale of Ijebuland. Passing away at age 91 after 65 years on the throne, Oba Adetona was a friend of Buhari and a revered voice in Yoruba land known for his candour and wisdom.
The Awujale’s reign began in April 1960, coinciding with Nigeria’s independence. His leadership spanned eras of military rule and democratic transition, during which he remained a respected moral authority often consulted by political leaders nationwide.
As Nigerians grapple with the death of Muhammadu Buhari, the simultaneous passing of Oba Adetona has added to the national sense of grief, marking the end of an era defined by resilience, discipline, and steadfast commitment to public service.
A final farewell and national reflection
President Tinubu assured citizens that the Federal Government will organise a state funeral worthy of Buhari’s “towering contributions to our country.” In his tribute, Tinubu extended condolences to Aisha Buhari, the former First Lady, their children, and the entire Buhari family, as well as the people of Katsina State and Daura Emirate, Buhari’s hometown.
“We pray for the peaceful repose of his soul. And may his life continue to inspire generations of Nigerians to serve with courage, conviction, and selflessness,” Tinubu wrote.
As the country lowers its flags and gathers to honour Muhammadu Buhari’s death, his decades of service, honesty, and sacrifice remain etched into Nigeria’s history, a reminder of the profound impact one leader can have on a nation.
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