Buhari to Be Laid to Rest Today in Daura as Tinubu and Former Leaders Gather
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to join former Nigerian leaders and other dignitaries in Daura, Katsina State, today for the burial of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away Sunday afternoon in London after a long illness.
Following Islamic burial traditions that require swift interment, plans have been made for Buhari to be laid to rest within 24 hours. Vice President Kashim Shettima accompanied the late president’s body back to Nigeria, acting on President Tinubu’s directive.
A senior government source confirmed late Sunday that preparations for the burial were underway, with the body expected to arrive overnight and burial proceedings to take place Monday.
“The burial is tomorrow. They’ll arrive tonight and head straight to Daura. Everything will happen quickly, as is customary in Islam,” the source shared.
While there has been no official update on President Tinubu’s travel schedule, insiders suggest he is likely to attend the burial, either traveling ahead or joining once arrangements are in place.
Diplomatic officials also hinted at the expected arrival of several West African heads of state, though details remain unconfirmed. “Some leaders from the region are likely to attend, but we’ll know more once Monday unfolds,” said a government aide.
Meanwhile, President Tinubu—who returned to Nigeria early Sunday—is reportedly taking time to rest and may begin meeting foreign dignitaries later today once burial formalities conclude.
