The body of former President Muhammadu Buhari departed London, United Kingdom, on Tuesday morning en route to Daura, Katsina State, ahead of his state burial.
Wizopa Blog reports that the late president’s remains were flown aboard a Nigerian Air Force aircraft.
Vice President Kashim Shettima is heading a senior Federal Government team to conclude formalities and coordinate logistics for the return of the former leader’s remains.
On Monday, the Federal Government confirmed that President Bola Tinubu will be on hand to receive the body of the late President in Katsina before his final burial in Daura, Katsina State.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, revealed this during a media briefing in Abuja.
Idris stated that the former president, who passed away on Sunday in a London clinic, is expected to arrive in Nigeria around midday on Tuesday.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, will personally be at the airport in Katsina to receive the late President’s remains.
“Once in Katsina, a short military tribute will take place at the airport before the body is taken to Daura.
“The Jana’iza (Islamic funeral prayer) will follow, after which the interment will be held at the former President’s residence,” Idris explained.
He added that, as part of the nationwide mourning, President Tinubu has ordered that condolence registers be opened across all Ministries, Departments and Agencies, as well as in Nigerian embassies and foreign missions.
Another condolence book will also be opened at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.
Idris noted that tributes from global leaders have been pouring in.
“The messages of sympathy from presidents and leaders around the world reflect the global impact and legacy of President Muhammadu Buhari,” he stated.
To oversee what he called a “respectful and well-structured process,” Idris said the President has formed an Inter-Ministerial Committee, led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
This committee will work closely with the Katsina State Government and the Buhari family.
He also announced that 25 Federal Executive Council members have been assigned to travel to Katsina for the burial and to remain in Daura for the Third-Day prayer scheduled for Wednesday.
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