President Bola Tinubu has dispatched Vice President Kashim Shettima to London to accompany the body of former president Muhammadu Buhari back to Nigeria.
The directive follows the announcement of Buhari’s death earlier on Saturday. The former president passed away at a clinic in London at the age of 81.
Garba Shehu, former presidential spokesperson, confirmed the passing in a statement issued on behalf of the family.
“The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London. May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus, Amin,” the statement read.
Presidency sources say Shettima would leave Abuja on Sunday night and is expected to arrive in London early Monday to make arrangements for the late president’s return.
Details regarding funeral rites and interment are expected to be announced by the presidency in collaboration with the Buhari family.