Former President Muhammadu Buhari died at the age of 82, according to a statement by his former special adviser, Garba Shehu.
Buhari passed away on Sunday in a London clinic where he had been undergoing treatment.
The news of his demise has triggered an outpouring of condolences from Nigerians, especially political leaders. President Bola Tinubu, who succeeded Buhari in 2023, was among the first to mourn the former leader.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said Tinubu has ordered Vice President Kashim Shettima to proceed to the United Kingdom to accompany the former president’s body back to Nigeria.
Born on December 17, 1942, Buhari was raised in Katsina, his home state, and was brought up by his mother following his father’s death when he was four.
The Katsina-born politician was married to Safinatu Yusuf between 1971 and 1988, and later married Aisha Halilu in 1989. Buhari is survived by ten children.
President Tinubu has offered his deep condolences to the family of the former president, particularly his widow, Aishat Buhari.
As a mark of respect for the departed leader, Tinubu has ordered that flags be flown at half-mast.
Buhari served as Nigeria’s President from 2015 to 2023 and also served as the military Head of State between January 1984 and August 1985.
