ABUJA — Former Anambra State governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who died in London on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 82.
Taking to his social media platforms shortly after the news broke, Obi posted a solemn photo of the late president alongside a message of condolence and prayer.
“I have just received the very sad news of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari in London. His death provides a solemn moment, not just for his family and close associates, but for our nation as a whole,” Obi wrote.
“President Buhari has always comported himself in a dignified manner as a leader.
“To his wife, children, extended family, and to all Nigerians, I extend my deepest condolences.
“May Almighty Allah, Most Gracious and Most Merciful, forgive President Buhari’s shortcomings, reward his efforts in service to the nation, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus. Ameen.”
Buhari’s Death Confirmed by the Presidency
According to an official statement from the Presidency, Buhari died at about 4:30 p.m. in a London clinic, where he had been undergoing treatment for an undisclosed illness.
In response to the passing, President Bola Tinubu declared a national mourning period, directing all flags to be flown at half-mast for seven days. Vice President Kashim Shettima has already departed for the United Kingdom to coordinate the return of Buhari’s remains to Nigeria for burial in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State.
A National Figure Remembered
Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria first as a military Head of State from 1983 to 1985, and then returned decades later as a democratically elected president in 2015, under the All Progressives Congress (APC), defeating incumbent Goodluck Jonathan. He was re-elected in 2019 and served until May 2023, when he handed over to President Tinubu.
While his administration was marked by a strong anti-corruption push and notable infrastructure developments, it also faced criticism over economic struggles, insecurity, and human rights issues.
President Tinubu, in his tribute, described Buhari as a “dedicated patriot” who served Nigeria “with strength and sincerity.”
Peter Obi now joins a growing list of national leaders and global figures paying tribute to the late statesman, acknowledging his impact on Nigeria’s political evolution and governance.
