Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Anambra Governor Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai visited the graveside of late President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura, Katsina State on Wednesday, a day after his burial.
Buhari, who died Sunday in London at 81, was laid to rest Tuesday in his hometown with full military honors. The solemn ceremony continued to draw prominent Nigerians paying their respects to the family of the former military ruler (1983-1985) and two-term civilian president (2015-2023).
Atiku Abubakar, arriving early with other dignitaries, honored his former political rival as “a man who dedicated his life to the service of the nation.” Peter Obi struck a unifying tone during his condolence visit, stating: “In moments like this, we must remember the bonds that unite us beyond politics.”
The late president’s body had arrived Nigeria Tuesday morning aboard a presidential jet accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila. President Bola Tinubu received the remains at Katsina Airport where government officials gathered to pay tribute before the final journey to Daura.
Buhari was buried at his family compound’s garden – a spot where he often sat in quiet reflection during his lifetime. The solemn Islamic rites included a ceremonial military procession where his flag-draped casket was wheeled to the graveside on a military trolley. The service concluded with a 21-gun salute honoring his service as Nigeria’s former commander-in-chief.
The graveside visit by the political leaders – including former opponents – underscored Buhari’s cross-partisan respect, coming just weeks after Atiku and Obi formed a coalition ahead of the 2027 elections. Mourners continue to stream into Daura as the eight-day mourning period declared by the federal government continues.
