Tinubu Mourns Buhari’s Death, Orders Flags to Fly at Half-Mast

Tinubu Mourns Buhari’s Death, Orders Flags to Fly at Half-Mast
Former President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria as an elected civilian President from 2015 to 2023
Tinubu directs Vice President Shettima to bring back Buhari’s body

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the death of his predecessor, former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London on Saturday, July 13, 2025, Eko Hot Blog reports.

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According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Buhari died at about 4:30 p.m. following a prolonged illness.

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President Tinubu has reached out to the late President’s widow, Mrs Aisha Buhari, to express his condolences. He also directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to immediately travel to the United Kingdom and accompany Buhari’s body back to Nigeria.

As a mark of national mourning, Tinubu has ordered that all flags across the country be flown at half-mast.

Buhari, aged 82, served Nigeria as an elected civilian President from 2015 to 2023 after first taking power as a military Head of State between January 1984 and August 1985.

His passing marks the end of an era for many Nigerians who witnessed his prominent role in shaping the nation’s political landscape over the past four decades.

Muhammadu Buhari is Dead — Muhammadu Buhari

Further details regarding burial arrangements are expected to be released in due course.

Buhari had travelled to London weeks earlier for what aides described as a routine medical check-up. However, reports of declining health had sparked speculation in political circles, though no official statement had been made prior to his death.

During his eight-year civilian presidency, Buhari prioritised anti-corruption reforms, infrastructure development, and the fight against Boko Haram, though his administration faced criticism over rising insecurity and economic hardship.

International reactions have begun pouring in, with several African leaders and global institutions paying tribute to the late leader. The African Union and ECOWAS are expected to issue formal condolences in the coming hours.