Atiku, Obi, El-Rufai Pay Respects at Buhari’s Graveside in Daura
Daura, Katsina State – In a moment of national reflection and unity, prominent Nigerian political figures—Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai—visited Daura on Wednesday to pay their final respects at the graveside of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died in London on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 81.
Dignitaries Mourn at Buhari’s Final Resting Place
Buhari was buried on Tuesday in his hometown, Daura, according to Islamic rites. His passing has drawn waves of condolence visits and tributes from across Nigeria and beyond.
Among the first to arrive at his graveside was former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who described the late leader as:
“A man who dedicated his life to the service of the nation.”
Peter Obi, former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, reflected on the importance of unity during times of loss:
“In moments like this, we must remember the bonds that unite us beyond politics.”
Buhari Laid to Rest with Full Military Honours
The body of the former president was flown into Nigeria early Tuesday, accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima and Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu.
President Tinubu personally received the remains at the Katsina Airport, where a high-powered federal delegation paid tribute. From there, Buhari’s body was transported to Daura for burial.
The funeral took place in the late president’s cherished garden spot—a peaceful setting where he often sat in quiet contemplation. Military honours were rendered, including a ceremonial gun salute. Buhari’s body was draped in the Nigerian flag and wheeled to the graveside on a military trolley.
Legacy of a Soldier and Statesman
Buhari served as Nigeria’s military head of state from 1983 to 1985, and later as a two-term civilian president from 2015 to 2023. His leadership, marked by a focus on anti-corruption, discipline, and infrastructural development, left a lasting imprint on the nation’s political and moral landscape.