By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
Nigeria has been thrown into mourning following the official announcement of the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at approximately 4:30 pm after a prolonged illness.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a solemn statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the passing of the former Nigerian leader and extended heartfelt condolences to his widow, Mrs Aisha Buhari, and the entire Buhari family.
In honour of the late leader’s legacy, President Tinubu has directed the national flag to fly at half-mast across the country as a symbol of respect and national reflection. He also dispatched Vice President Kashim Shettima to the United Kingdom to accompany the body of the former president back to Nigeria.
“President Tinubu has spoken with Mrs Aishat Buhari, the former President’s widow, and offered his deep condolences,” the statement read.
Muhammadu Buhari, a former military ruler from 1984 to 1985, returned to power through the ballot box in 2015 under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and served two terms until 2023. He was widely regarded as a symbol of discipline and anti-corruption, though his presidency was also marked by economic and security challenges.
His passing marks the end of an era in Nigeria’s political history and is expected to draw tributes from leaders across the world. Arrangements for his final rites are expected to be announced soon.
As the nation reflects on the life and legacy of a leader who shaped decades of Nigerian governance, both in uniform and in civilian rule, Nigerians across divides are united in grief and remembrance.