By Ayomide Otitoju
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has officially announced the funeral arrangements for former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in a London hospital on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 82.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, Governor Radda revealed that following consultations with the late President’s family and close associates in London, it was agreed that his remains would arrive in Katsina by noon on Tuesday, July 15. The burial is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. in Daura, Buhari’s hometown.
Radda conveyed his condolences on behalf of the government and people of Katsina State, describing Buhari as “a national icon whose legacy of integrity, humility, and service will remain etched in the heart of the nation.”
Meanwhile, official procedures have begun for the release of Buhari’s remains from the London hospital where he died following a prolonged illness. Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, arrived in London earlier on Monday to receive the body. They were welcomed by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, and other officials.
Back home, mourners have flooded Buhari’s residence in Daura, with friends, relatives, and longtime associates reflecting on his character. One of his close friends, Sulaiman Yarin-Katsina, praised Buhari’s enduring simplicity and deep ties to his community. “He never lost touch with his people. His humility remained constant,” he said.
Security presence was visible around Daura and the Emir’s palace, but normal commercial activities continued across the town. Among early visitors to Buhari’s Daura residence were Deputy Governor Faruk Jobe, Deputy Chief of Staff Mukhtar Saulawa, APC State Chairman Sani Daura, Commissioner for Internal Security Nasiru Danmusa, former SUBEB Chairman Lawal Daura, and AIG Zone 14, Aliyu Musa.
President Buhari, who led Nigeria from May 29, 2015, to May 29, 2023, had earlier served as the country’s military head of state from 1984 to 1985. His death has prompted tributes from across Nigeria, with leaders describing him as a man of uncommon integrity and national dedication.
