President Tinubu announces death of former president Muhammadu Buhari

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the passing of his predecessor, former President Muhammadu Buhari.

According to a statement issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, President Buhari died on Sunday in London at approximately 4:30 p.m. after a prolonged illness.

Mr Onanuga noted that President Tinubu had spoken with Mrs Aisha Buhari, the former First Lady, to extend his heartfelt condolences.

In response to the loss, President Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the United Kingdom to accompany the late President Buhari’s remains back to Nigeria.

Muhammadu Buhari was elected President of Nigeria in 2015 and re-elected in 2019, having earlier served as the country’s military Head of State from January 1984 to August 1985.

As a mark of respect, President Tinubu has ordered that national flags be flown at half-mast in honour of the late statesman.