The Katsina State Government has declared Monday, July 14, a work-free day to allow residents to mourn the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away at a London clinic on Sunday evening.
The announcement was made by the Secretary to the Government of Katsina State, Abdullahi Garba Faskari, following confirmation that the 82-year-old former president died after a prolonged illness at approximately 4:30 p.m. local time on Sunday.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda expressed his profound condolences to Buhari’s family, the people of Katsina, and the entire nation in a statement released following news of the former president’s death. The governor paid tribute to Buhari’s legacy of service, describing him as “a great leader, a hero, a true democrat, and a patriotic elder statesman whose life was dedicated to the service of Nigeria.”
Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2015 to 2023, was a native of Daura in Katsina State, where he maintained strong ties throughout his political career. The declaration of a work-free day reflects the deep connection between the former president and his home state, where he enjoyed considerable support throughout his eight years in office.
Governor Radda also offered prayers for the deceased leader, asking Almighty Allah to grant mercy to Buhari’s soul, forgive his shortcomings, and reward his noble deeds with Aljannatul Firdaus. The governor’s statement emphasized the former president’s commitment to democratic principles and his dedication to serving the Nigerian people.
The former president’s remains are expected to arrive in Nigeria today, with burial arrangements planned for his hometown of Daura. Family members and government officials are coordinating the logistics for the repatriation of his body from London, where he had been receiving medical treatment.
Buhari’s death marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigerian politics. The former military ruler, who first led the country as Head of State from 1983 to 1985, returned to power through democratic elections in 2015 and served two terms before handing over to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in May 2023.
As news of his death spreads across Nigeria, tributes have begun pouring in from political leaders, civil society groups, and ordinary citizens who remember his efforts to combat corruption and strengthen democratic institutions. The work-free day declared by Katsina State is expected to be the first of many memorial activities as the nation prepares to honor the memory of one of its most prominent political figures.
The state government has urged residents to use the day for prayers and reflection on Buhari’s contributions to Nigeria’s development and democratic progress. Further details about funeral arrangements and state-level commemoration activities are expected to be announced in the coming hours.
