Tinubu deeply pained by Buhari’s death, says Shettima

By Kunle Sanni –

Vice President Kashim Shettima has described the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari as a monumental loss not only to Nigeria but to the African continent. He disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is personally pained by the former leader’s passing.

Shettima made this known on Wednesday during a condolence visit to Buhari’s residence in Daura, Katsina State, where he led a federal delegation for special prayers. He revealed that Tinubu had earlier sent him to London during Buhari’s final days and directed him, alongside the Chief of Staff, to accompany the late President’s remains back to Nigeria.

“The President was personally pained by the loss,” Shettima said. “In consultation with the family and the Katsina State Government, it was agreed that a formal prayer for the repose of Buhari’s soul would be held on Thursday.”

He described Buhari as a leader of integrity whose passing resonates far beyond Daura or Katsina State. “Every soul shall taste death,” he said, urging reflection on life’s journey.

Katsina State Governor Dikko Umar Radda also described Buhari’s death as a great loss to the state, the nation, and Africa, urging leaders to uphold his legacy of transparency and accountability.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, noted that Buhari was mourned by Nigerians across all walks of life and said Tinubu’s presence at the burial reflected deep respect.

Other ministers and dignitaries at the prayer included Labour Minister Mohammed Maigari Dingyadi, Minister of Women Affairs Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Agriculture Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas, and Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), among others.