Former President Muhammadu Buhari died of leukaemia, SaharaReporters has exclusively learnt.
Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has died at the age of 82 in London following a long battle with leukaemia.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced the news Sunday evening, confirming that Buhari passed away around 4:30 p.m. in the UK. Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the president has spoken to former First Lady Aisha Buhari to express condolences.
Vice President Kashim Shettima has been directed to travel to the UK to accompany the late president’s body back to Nigeria. National flags are to be flown at half-mast.
Garba Shehu, Buhari’s former spokesperson, said, “The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London.” He added, “May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus, Amin.”
Sources told SaharaReporters that Buhari had been receiving treatment in intensive care in recent weeks. “Buhari died of leukaemia,” one source said.
Further details regarding funeral arrangements will be announced.