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Tears streamed down faces at the funeral for the late former president, Muhammadu Buhari, as his body was laid to rest in a grave that sparked controversy due to his prominent status.
Hundreds of mourners, some present and others watching online, observed the rites conducted by clerics in strict accordance with Islamic traditions.
This included Buhari’s children and Dikko Radda, the Governor of Katsina State, who struggled to hold back tears as they watched the former leader's body being placed into the grave.
Governor Radda, dressed in traditional attire and overseeing the burial arrangements at Buhari’s preferred location, revealed the somber atmosphere in Daura, the ex-president's hometown, while visibly emotional during the ceremonies.
Close to the gurney carrying the body, the governor was soaked with perspiration, witnessing the still form of the lanky former leader.
Earlier, Fatima Buhari, the late president’s daughter, was seen weeping inside the family home in Daura, grappling with the reality that her father would no longer be present to fulfill his familial role.
She was consoled by relatives and friends as they finalized the arrangements for his last rites.
Although President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Imo Governor Hope Uzodinma, along with other dignitaries present at the burial site did not openly weep, their expressions revealed the sorrow of losing a dear friend in Buhari.
He was laid to rest on Tuesday, just two days after he passed away at the age of 82 in a London hospital.
Following the announcement of his death, there has been an outpouring of condolences from Nigerians and international organizations, many of whom remembered him as a benevolent leader.
Among those expressing sympathy was António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, who conveyed deep sorrow over Buhari’s passing and commended him for fostering peace and security in West Africa.
In a statement, Guterres remarked on Buhari's dedication to the stability and development of Nigeria and acknowledged his advocacy for regional and multilateral collaboration while extending condolences to his family and the Nigerian populace during this period of national grief.
Prior to the interment, Chief of Defence Staff Chris Musa honored Buhari’s contributions in combating insurgency during his citation by the graveside.
