The Traffic

"End of an Era: Nigeria’s Former President Muhammadu Buhari Passes Away in London"

Nigeria is in mourning following the passing of one of its most iconic political figures—former President Muhammadu Buhari—who died in London on Sunday, July 13, at approximately 4:30 p.m., after a prolonged battle with illness.

The news was confirmed by his former aide, Bashir Ahmad, who announced the somber development on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). In his brief but heartfelt message, he stated:

“The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London.

May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus. Amin.”

Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Muhammadu Buhari rose from modest beginnings in a Fulani household to become a two-time leader of Africa’s most populous nation—first as a military ruler from 1983 to 1985, and later as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023.

Renowned for his austere lifestyle and no-nonsense approach to governance, Buhari built his political legacy on a foundation of anti-corruption reforms, national security initiatives, and attempts to diversify Nigeria’s oil-dependent economy.

In the wake of his passing, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extended his condolences to the Buhari family. According to a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu has personally spoken with Mrs. Aisha Buhari, the former First Lady, offering his sympathies and support during this difficult time.

In an additional show of respect, Vice President Kashim Shettima has been dispatched to the United Kingdom to accompany the late president’s remains back to Nigeria. President Tinubu has also directed that national flags be flown at half-staff in honor of the late statesman.

Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in line with Islamic customs.

As Nigeria prepares to lay to rest one of its most enduring political figures, tributes continue to pour in from across the country and beyond, recognizing a man whose presence shaped the trajectory of modern Nigerian history.

By Haruna Yakubu Haruna