The remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari have departed London for Nigeria and are expected to land later today.
President Tinubu will officially receive the body in Katsina before it is transferred to Daura, his hometown, for burial.
Vice President Kashim Shettima is accompanying the former leader’s remains, marking a solemn transition to formal funeral rites.
The state burial ceremony is scheduled for about 2 pm in Daura, Katsina State, with religious observances following on Wednesday, July 16.
President Bola Tinubu has sent a strong delegation to honour the late president.
According to Bashir Ahmad, former presidential aide, “Vice President, Kashim Shettima, is accompanying the body, which will be received later today, in Katsina by President Bola Tinubu ahead of burial in his hometown, Daura, according to Islamic rites.”
Meanwhile, several African leaders are expected to join the funeral service.
This solemn affair follows the passing of former President Buhari on Sunday, July 13 in London.
Since then, the federal government has observed national mourning and declared a public holiday on Tuesday, July 15, in his memory.
The coffin is flown on Tuesday, July 15 inside a Nigerian Air Force aircraft from a London clinic where he had passed.
In a terse statement released on his X page, Bashir Ahmad confirmed the departure, noting, “The body of former President Muhammadu Buhari has departed London for Nigeria.”
President Tinubu has further directed that 25 Federal Executive Council (FEC) members join in paying respect.
He also asked that they remain in Katsina for the three-day prayer sessions in Daura scheduled on Wednesday, July 16.
The funeral will be conducted according to Islamic traditions. In addition, arrangements include prayers and public tributes celebrating Buhari’s contributions.
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