Buhari’s Death Prompts Tinubu to Call Emergency FEC Meeting, Order State Honours
On July 13, 2025, President Bola Tinubu announced an emergency Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting for Tuesday, July 15, to honor former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in a London hospital on Sunday.
Tinubu confirmed that Buhari’s death would be marked with full state honours, reflecting his significant contributions to Nigeria. “As a mark of respect to our former leader, I have directed that all national flags fly at half-staff across the country for seven days from today,” Tinubu stated, emphasizing the nation’s mourning.
Tinubu expressed deep grief, saying, “It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that I received the news of the passing of His Excellency, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd), GCFR, my predecessor, who departed this life today, Sunday, July 13, 2025, at a hospital in the United Kingdom.” He described Buhari as “a patriot, a soldier, a statesman,” whose legacy endures through his service as military head of state from 1984 to 1985 and democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023. “Duty, honour, and a deep commitment to the unity and progress of our nation defined his life,” Tinubu added.
Highlighting Buhari’s leadership, Tinubu noted, “He stood firm through the most turbulent times, leading with quiet strength, profound integrity, and an unshakable belief in Nigeria’s potential.
He championed discipline in public service, confronted corruption head-on, and placed the country above personal interest at every turn.” Tinubu extended condolences to Buhari’s wife, Aisha, their children, the Buhari family, and the people of Katsina State, particularly Daura Emirate, stating, “In this moment of national mourning,
I extend my deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Aisha, with whom I have been in constant touch, his children, the entire Buhari family, and all who knew and loved him.”
The Federal Government will organize a state funeral to reflect Buhari’s towering contributions. Tinubu concluded, “We honour his service. We reflect on his legacy. And we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul. May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus. And may his life continue to inspire generations of Nigerians to serve with courage, conviction, and selflessness.”
