Former President Muhammadu Buhari Dies at 82 in London After Prolonged Illness

Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has passed away. The news was confirmed by his former aide, Bashir Ahmad, via a post on X (formerly Twitter). Buhari reportedly died at around 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 13, in a London clinic after a prolonged illness.

Ahmad shared the announcement on behalf of the family, stating:
“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.”

Buhari, born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, was the 23rd child of his father and hailed from a Fulani family. He served as Nigeria’s civilian president from 2015 to 2023, having previously led the country as a military head of state from January 1984 to August 1985. He was known for his anti-corruption agenda and efforts to stabilize Nigeria’s economy.

The Presidency has confirmed the development. In a statement signed by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extended his condolences to the former First Lady, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, during a phone call.

President Tinubu has also directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the United Kingdom to accompany Buhari’s remains back to Nigeria. In honor of the late leader, Tinubu has ordered national flags to be flown at half-mast.

The family is expected to announce further details about the funeral in line with Islamic rites.