Daura kinsmen, associates reflect on Buhari’s final months
As the burial of late former President Muhammadu Buhari holds on Tuesday (today), insights from his kinsmen, domestic workers, neighbours, and close associates reveal how he spent his last two years at his Daura country home after leaving office.
Buhari, 82, died in a London hospital on Sunday and will be laid to rest at his compound in Daura, Katsina State, today, closing the chapter of a life marked by service, humility, and compassion.
Before the burial, however, some of his staff members said Buhari was well-known for his compassion towards animals, especially his pets.
After his retirement in Daura, Buhari continued to surround himself with domestic workers who offered him companionship and support. The presence of trusted workers eased the loneliness he felt after his presidency, sources said. Domestic workers said he has remained warm and approachable long before his political career.
Former Senate President Ahmad Lawan, who visited Buhari’s residence in Daura to pay his respects on Monday, praised Buhari’s legacy of integrity and service.
“His 2015 election was based on his exemplary record in public service and integrity. Nigerians embraced him because he truly lived a life of service,” Lawan said, adding, “While no one is perfect, his dedication to the people is a model for all leaders. We must learn to be honest with our leaders and support constructive dialogue.”
During the Lahasarh prayers at a local mosque in Daura, the Imam led heartfelt supplications for the late President’s soul, asking for divine mercy and eternal peace. The congregation joined in with “Ameen,” honouring Buhari’s memory.
The prayers offered solace to mourners and underscored the community’s faith during this time of loss.
Suleiman Ammali, a close childhood friend of the late President, spoke emotionally about his passing.
“My face tells you the whole story of my heart. We can only take heart, God has already destined him not to reach more years. I am among his closest friends.
“My heart aches, but I take comfort knowing God has His plan. Buhari was a principled man who never misused public funds.
“Nigerians, especially in the north, will truly miss a good father and leader,” Ammali said.
Neighbours also highlighted Buhari’s humility and kindness as defining traits throughout his life.
President Bola Tinubu has declared seven days of national mourning, during which flags are flying at half-mast nationwide and at Nigerian missions abroad.
Born on December 17, 1942, Buhari first seized power in a 1983 coup and returned 32 years later as Nigeria’s first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent, serving two civilian terms (2015-2023).
Tinubu, on Monday, approved the formation of an Inter-Ministerial Committee to oversee the planning and coordination of a state funeral for the late former President.
The committee, to be chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, is tasked with delivering a befitting burial ceremony for the late leader, who passed away on Sunday.
A statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen, said the committee includes several key ministers and top security officials. Among them are the Ministers of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Defence, Information and National Orientation, Works, Interior, FCT, Housing and Urban Development, Health and Social Welfare (State), and Culture and Creative Economy.
“National Security Adviser, Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination. Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political and Other Matters; Inspector General of Police; Director-General, Department of State Services and Chief of Defence Staff,” he added.
Imohiosen said the Office of the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, will serve as the secretariat for the committee.
He noted that the President directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to open condolence registers at the entrance of their offices for members of the public to pay their last respects.
Additionally, he said a central condolence register will be available at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja, to enable the diplomatic community and the general public to express their sympathies.
“In honour of the late President Muhammadu Buhari, President Tinubu has also directed all Ministries, Departments and Agencies to open condolence registers at the entrance of their respective offices for the public to pay their respects to the late Elder Statesman.
“Additionally, a central condolence register for the diplomatic community and the general public will be opened at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja. Further briefings will follow as the days unfold,” the statement added.
In London, former President Goodluck Jonathan and ex-Ghana President Nana Akufo-Addo on Monday visited Vice President Kashim Shettima and his delegation as they paid tribute to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Communication, Stanley Nkwocha, revealed this in a statement he signed Monday titled ‘Jonathan, Akufo-Addo Visit VP Shettima In London, Pay Tribute To Buhari.’
Vice President Shettima was in London on President Tinubu’s directive to accompany former President Buhari’s body back to Nigeria.
