How Was Buhari Honored in His Final Journey?
Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari was laid to rest on Tuesday in the backyard of his home in Daura, Katsina State, as hundreds of mourners gathered to pay their respects. Buhari, who led Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, died in a London hospital on Sunday at the age of 82 following an undisclosed illness.
At the airport in Katsina, his coffin, wrapped in Nigeria’s national colors of green and white, was received by President Bola Tinubu, senior government officials, and mourners dressed in traditional Muslim attire. A military parade and a 21-gun salute marked his arrival before his remains were taken to his hometown, about 80 kilometers away.
In Daura, crowds chanted “Sai Baba,” a nickname often used affectionately by his supporters, while some climbed trees hoping to catch one final glimpse as the casket was lowered into the ground. Tinubu declared a national holiday and seven days of mourning in honor of the late leader.
What Was Buhari’s Role in Nigeria’s History?
Buhari was one of Nigeria’s few leaders to rise through both military and democratic rule. After first taking power in the 1980s through a coup, he returned decades later to win the 2015 presidential election by defeating then-incumbent Goodluck Jonathan. His two terms in office were defined by efforts to fight corruption, revive the economy, and restore security.
Despite the challenges, such as economic recession, oil production declines, and nationwide insecurity, Buhari retained deep loyalty in northern Nigeria, particularly among Muslim communities who respected his disciplined lifestyle and leadership style.
Supporters often cite his anti-corruption campaigns and his refusal to embrace excessive luxury while in office. “Sai Baba” became a slogan of hope and reform during his presidential campaigns. However, critics argue that his administration did not deliver enough tangible progress in the fight against graft, with few convictions recorded during his tenure.
By Lucky Anyanje
