Buhari, who once led Nigeria as a military ruler in the 1980s, made a political comeback decades later, becoming the first Nigerian to defeat an incumbent president in a democratic election in 2015. He secured a second term in office in 2019.

On Monday, Vice President Kashim Shettima and other senior officials traveled to London to coordinate the return of Buhari’s remains. Following discussions with the former president’s family, Katsina Governor Dikko Umaru Radda confirmed that his body would arrive in Nigeria on Tuesday and be interred in Daura, his hometown.

Tributes have poured in from around the world. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Buhari’s dedication to strengthening ties between India and Nigeria, highlighting his warmth and wisdom in a message posted on social media.

Buhari was known for his strong anti-corruption stance and retained a loyal following, particularly in the predominantly Muslim north. He often described himself as a “converted democrat,” trading his military attire for traditional robes and prayer caps after transitioning to civilian leadership.

Ibrahim Babangida, the former military leader who overthrew Buhari in 1985, reflected on their complex relationship, describing him as a humble and deeply spiritual individual. “We may not have agreed on everything — as brothers often don’t — but I never once doubted his sincerity or his patriotism,” Babangida said.

After stepping down in 2023, Buhari largely retreated from public life, spending most of his time in Daura. His successor, President Bola Tinubu, took over amid severe economic challenges, including soaring inflation, a shortage of foreign currency, declining oil output, and widespread insecurity.

Supporters hailed Buhari as a moral figure in Nigerian politics, admired for his simple lifestyle and efforts to distance himself from the corruption often linked to the political elite. Detractors, however, criticized his leadership style, describing him as a distant figure who often delegated key responsibilities and spent extended periods abroad, particularly in London for medical treatment. A local publication described him as a leader whose absence left many Nigerians feeling abandoned.

Buhari passed away at approximately 4:30 p.m. local time (1530 GMT) on Sunday after battling a prolonged illness, according to a statement posted on X by presidential spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale.

The former president had been receiving medical care in London for several months, though details of his condition were not disclosed to the public. Buhari had previously spent extended periods in the UK for health reasons during his presidency.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Buhari as “a patriot who devoted his life to Nigeria’s unity, security, and democratic development.”

Buhari, a former military ruler turned civilian president, made history in 2015 when he defeated then-President Goodluck Jonathan in a landmark election. His administration focused on anti-corruption efforts, infrastructure development, and fighting insurgency in the northeast, though his tenure was also marked by economic challenges and public criticism.

International tributes have begun pouring in, with African leaders and global dignitaries praising his commitment to public service and national stability.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the presidency in the coming days.