VICE President Kashim Shettima has described the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari as a significant loss to Nigeria and the African continent.
Speaking today at Buhari’s residence in Daura, Katsina State, where a prayer session was held for the late leader, Shettima said condolences have poured in from across the globe to mourn the former president and sympathize with President Bola Tinubu.
“The President was deeply saddened by this loss,” Shettima said. “He had earlier sent me to London to visit the late President, and following his passing, directed me and the Chief of Staff to accompany his remains and family back to Nigeria.”
Shettima added that following consultations between President Tinubu, Buhari’s family, and the Katsina State Government, a final prayer session would be held tomorrow, July 17, at noon in Daura.
Reflecting on the inevitability of death, Shettima urged Nigerians to live with the awareness that life is transient, likening human existence to that of travellers waiting at a station. He prayed for Allah to grant Buhari eternal rest in Al-Jannah Firdaus and protection for his family.
He emphasized Buhari’s unique status, noting that people from all walks of life are still welcome to pay their respects in Daura.
Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda and members of the late President’s family will continue to receive visitors.
President Tinubu had personally received Buhari’s remains at Katsina Airport on Tuesday, July 15, ahead of his burial.
Governor Radda also addressed mourners, saying Buhari’s passing was a profound loss not just for Katsina State but for Nigeria and Africa at large. He called on leaders to uphold the values Buhari embodied—transparency, honesty, and accountability—saying, “Buhari lived and died for the people.”
Radda expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for attending the funeral and standing by the people of Katsina.
Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris also paid tribute, saying, “We are here to offer prayers for the repose of President Muhammadu Buhari’s soul. His burial was witnessed by dignitaries from across the country, including President Tinubu. May Allah accept his soul.”