In Tears, Buhari’s Daughter and Family Arrive in Daura for Burial of Former Nigerian President

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

Fatima Buhari, daughter of the late former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, arrived in Daura on Tuesday in tears as final preparations were underway for her father’s burial. She appeared visibly grief-stricken and was seen crying quietly while being comforted by friends and relatives.

Members of the Buhari family began arriving at the Daura residence early in the day, as the former president’s body was flown in from London aboard a Nigerian Air Force aircraft.

Also heading to Daura is First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who will join other dignitaries for the burial. A 25-member Presidential Committee, led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, is overseeing the state funeral arrangements in partnership with the Katsina State Government and the Buhari family.

President Muhammadu Buhari died on Sunday in a London hospital after a long illness. He previously served as Nigeria’s military ruler from 1983 to 1985 and later as an elected president from 2015 to 2023.

In recognition of his service, the Federal Government has declared a full state burial and named Tuesday, July 15, a public holiday. A seven-day period of national mourning is currently in effect, with flags flying at half-mast nationwide and at Nigerian embassies.

Condolence registers have been opened across federal ministries, government agencies, embassies, and the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.