In Daura, Katsina State today, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu joined a solemn congregation of national leaders, family members and traditional dignitaries at the Jana’iza prayer ground for the funeral of Former President Muhammadu Buhari. The late leader’s remains were received at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina around midday before being brought to the prayer site in Daura, his hometown, under heavy security deployment by both the Nigerian Police and Army
This deeply emotional moment marked the official commencement of Buhari’s state burial, directed personally by President Tinubu, who has declared tomorrow a public holiday and ordered national flags flown at half-mast over a seven-day mourning period
A Federal Executive Council of 25 ministers has been instructed to remain in Katsina for the Third‑Day prayers scheduled for Wednesday, July 16
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda confirmed the funeral prayer took place at around 2 pm, at a location near the Emir’s palace following consultation with Buhari’s family, while dignitaries from Nigeria and other nations, including two foreign presidents and the Prime Minister of Niger, were in attendance
The funeral prayer and interment occurred in accordance with Islamic rites on the grounds of Buhari’s private residence in Daura
Security sources describe Daura as calm yet firmly secured, with strategic checkpoints put in place as mourners and sympathisers paid their respects at the compound and Emir’s palace . Vice President Kashim Shettima and a high-level delegation completed logistical arrangements in London and accompanied the repatriation process
The poignant ceremony in Daura underscores President Tinubu’s personal involvement in honouring Buhari, spotlighting transitions, national unity, and cultural respect as the country pauses to reflect on the legacy of its former military head and democratically elected President.
