BY MUSA IDRIS UMAR, JULY 14, 2025 | 05:03 PM
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday at a hospital in the United Kingdom.
In a statement from the State House, President Tinubu described Buhari as a patriot, soldier, and statesman whose life was defined by duty, honour, and an unshakable belief in Nigeria’s potential.
He noted that Buhari’s legacy of service and sacrifice endures, having served Nigeria with dedication both as a military Head of State from 1984 to 1985, and later as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023.
As a mark of respect, Tinubu directed all national flags to fly at half-staff for seven days and announced an emergency Federal Executive Council session in honour of the late president.
He also said that Buhari would be accorded full state honours befitting his towering contributions to Nigeria.
Gov. Zulum said Buhari’s passing is a colossal loss, especially at a critical moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
He highlighted Buhari’s personal connection to Borno, recalling his role as the first military governor of the old Borno State from February 3 to March 15, 1976, and his lasting contributions to the development of the state and the country.
The governor also remembered Buhari’s last visit to Borno in November 2024 to commiserate with the state over a devastating flood disaster.
Both leaders prayed for Allah’s mercy on Buhari’s soul, asking that he be granted eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus.