Tinubu, others receive Buhari’s remains in Katsina ahead of burial

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday received the remains of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari as his body arrived at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina from London, where he died on Sunday at the age of 82.

The late President’s body was accompanied on the flight by Vice President Kashim Shettima and a delegation of senior Federal Government officials.

Upon arrival, they were met by a solemn crowd led by Tinubu, Katsina State Governor Dikko Umar Radda, members of the Federal Executive Council, and members of the Buhari family.

The former President, who served Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, died after a brief illness while receiving medical care in the United Kingdom.

His body is scheduled to be interred later today (Tuesday) in his hometown, Daura, Katsina State, in line with Islamic rites.

Military personnel and Islamic clerics were on hand to conduct the formal reception ceremony.

The air in Katsina was heavy with mourning, as political allies, traditional rulers and citizens gathered in quiet respect, reflecting on the legacy of the former military leader turned democratic President.

Recall that the Presidency earlier constituted a nine-member committee to oversee arrangements for the burial, with First Lady Oluremi Tinubu also in attendance at the airport.

Dignitaries from across the country and diplomatic representatives are expected to join the funeral rites in Daura later today.

Tinubu, others receive Buhari’s remains in Katsina ahead of burial