Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari died at a London clinic on Sunday at the age of 82 and is being taken home and buried in his hometown of Casina State University.
Casina Governor Dikko Radda, who is in the British capital with Buhari’s family, said he will be buried in Daura Town, 50 km (80 km) from Casina Town later Monday.
Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima is also in London and will accompany Buhari’s body back to Nigeria.
“I just left his family to the hospital where he died and decided that his body would be taken to Daura for burial, and the plan was to leave in the morning,” Rada told DW Hausa.
The vice president also confirmed that Daura was the last resting place in social media posts after Buhari arrived in London.
He said Buhari died after a brief illness without revealing any other details.
Islamic pastor Abdullahi Garangamawa told the BBC that it is expected to be consistent with Islamic teachings.
The pastor added: “The only thing that should stop Buhari’s body from being buried today (Monday) is that his body arrived at night because Islam frowned when burying at night. In this case, Tuesday morning would be good.”
The tribute was poured into the late Army General, one of those who led Nigeria twice (whether military and civilian presidents) in post-independence history.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, defeated by Buhari in the 2015 general election, described the late leader as “a selfless commitment to his duties and serving the country with a character and a deep sense of patriotism.”
The former military ruler General Ibrahim Babangida was overthrown by Buhari in the 1985 coup and also expressed appreciation for those in the 1980s.
“He is a man, and even after retirement, he is still a moral compass for many people and an example of modesty in public life.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is expected to attend the funeral in Dala Town, announced a seven-day national mourning period in honor of his predecessor.
In an official condolence statement released Sunday night, Tinubu said the country would pay its final tribute to the former leaders with dignity and honor, starting with all flags lowered to half the masts of the country from Sunday.
