Shettima, Gbajabiamila Arrive in London to Escort Buhari’s Body Home
Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila have landed in London to receive the remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness.
Their trip follows a direct order from President Bola Tinubu, who appointed them to lead the federal delegation ahead of the burial. Upon arrival in the UK on Monday morning, the group was received by Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar and Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State.
In honour of the late statesman, President Tinubu has directed all national flags to fly at half-mast for seven days. He has also convened an emergency Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting scheduled for Tuesday.
The Vice President is expected to accompany Buhari’s body back to Nigeria for a burial to be held in Daura, Katsina State, later today. As per Islamic tradition, the burial is set to take place within 24 hours of death.
Sources within the Presidency confirmed late Sunday that arrangements were already in place for the return and burial. Though Tinubu’s full travel plans have not been publicly disclosed, officials indicated the President is likely to be in Daura to pay his final respects alongside other former Nigerian leaders.
The nation continues to mourn the loss of a man who once served both as a military leader and a democratically elected president.
