Former President Buhari death shocks Nigeria. Tinubu orders flags at half-mast, VP Shettima sent to London to return Buhari’s body. Country in national mourning

Nigeria has been thrown into mourning following the former President Buhari death, which was confirmed on Sunday, 13 July 2025.

Also read: Nigeria mourns as former president Muhammadu Buhari dies in London at age 81

According to a statement released by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said that Buhari died in London at about 4:30 pm after a prolonged illness.

In immediate response, President Tinubu directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the United Kingdom to accompany the remains of the former leader back to Nigeria.

He also instructed that national flags across the country be flown at half-mast.

“President Tinubu has spoken with Mrs Aishat Buhari, the widow of the late President, to express his heartfelt condolences,” the official statement read.

The death of Muhammadu Buhari marks the end of a significant era in Nigeria’s political journey.

He served first as military Head of State from January 1984 to August 1985, then returned as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023.

Despite frequent criticisms of his leadership, Buhari remained a highly influential figure. His health had long been a concern, with several medical trips to the United Kingdom during and after his time in office.

Also read: Buhari lauds APC victory in Ondo governorship election

“Even though many disagreed with his policies, Buhari stood firm in his convictions and reshaped national discourse,” said a political analyst in Lagos.