Governor of Oyo State, Engineer ‘Seyi Makinde, has expressed deep condolences over the passing of Nigeria’s immediate past president, Muhammadu Buhari.
In his message of sympathy, Governor Makinde extended his heartfelt condolences to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who, he noted, has lost his immediate predecessor in office.
In a statement issued on Sunday, July 13, 2025, through his Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Governor Makinde also commiserated with the widow of the late president, Hajia Aisha Buhari, as well as the entire Buhari family.
He offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the former president’s soul and asked that God grant his family the fortitude and strength to bear this painful loss.
Governor Makinde described the death of the former Nigerian leader as shocking and unexpected. Nonetheless, he acknowledged that President Buhari left a significant imprint on the country, both during his time as a military leader and as a democratically elected president.
He praised Buhari’s commitment to national service and expressed hope that history would remember his contributions to the development of Nigeria.
Furthermore, the Oyo State governor prayed that Almighty God forgives the shortcomings of the late leader and admits him into Aljanah Firdaus, the highest place in Paradise.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari passed away at the age of 82. The sad news was first announced by his family, who confirmed that the former Nigerian leader died at approximately 4:30 pm on Saturday at a private clinic in London, United Kingdom, following a protracted yet undisclosed illness.
Following the confirmation of the former president’s passing, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, released a statement outlining the federal government’s immediate response to the development.
In response to the news, President Bola Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel urgently to the United Kingdom.
Vice President Shettima has been mandated to accompany the remains of the late President Buhari back to Nigeria. Upon return, the federal government is expected to commence state protocols and burial arrangements befitting the former Head of State.
Governor Makinde concluded his condolence message by urging Nigerians to reflect on Buhari’s life of service and to pray for the peace and unity of the nation during this period of mourning.