Buhari

Buhari’s biggest mistake was allowing ‘cabal’ to control access—ex-IGP Okiro

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mike Okiro has revealed that one of the major mistakes of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari was allowing a powerful group, often called a “cabal,” to control his government.

Okiro, who once chaired the Police Service Commission (PSC), said this made it difficult for even key officials to meet Buhari on critical matters.

Speaking in a Channels TV interview, Okiro recalled an incident where he had to be “smuggled through the backdoor” to see Buhari at the Presidential Villa.

He explained that some aides blocked his access, forcing him to take unconventional means to meet the president.

“I told him, ‘They are blocking me from seeing you, that’s why I came through the backdoor,’ and he was happy with me,” Okiro said.

The ex-police chief’s account highlights the restricted access to Buhari during his tenure, raising concerns about governance under his administration.

Leaders, dignitaries gather on Buhari’s burial in Daura

By Anas Abbas

Leaders, dignitaries, and heads of state are gathering in Daura, Katsina State, to pay their final respects to Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Muhammadu Buhari who passed away at the age of 82 in a London hospital on Sunday.A significant number of high-profile guests have arrived in Buhari’s hometown for the solemn Jana’iza ceremony.

Among those in attendance is Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, accompanied by prominent female dignitaries such as Mrs. Fatimah Abbas, wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives; Hajia Laila Barau, wife of the Deputy Senate President; Barrister Zarah Ribadu, wife of the National Security Adviser; and Mrs. Abu Ibrahim.

Governors from various states are also present, including Dauda Lawal from Zamfara State and Babajide Sanwo-Olu from Lagos State, who was seen arriving with billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote.

The Prime Minister of Niger, Ali Lamine Zeine, was welcomed in Katsina by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda and is among a growing number of West African leaders coming to honor the late Nigerian leader.

Yemi Osinbajo, who served as Buhari’s Vice President throughout his two terms, has also made his way to Katsina for the funeral.

Additionally, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar returned from an international business trip to pay tribute to Buhari, as confirmed by publisher Dele Momodu.

In light of the gathering, security measures have been heightened across Katsina as traditional leaders, senior government officials, and foreign delegations arrive from across Africa to participate in the funeral proceedings, which will adhere to Islamic rites.

Buhari to be buried Tuesday in Daura—Gov Radda

By Uzair Adam

The burial of Nigeria’s immediate past president, Muhammadu Buhari, will take place on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State.

This was disclosed by Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, during a press briefing on Monday. The Daily Reality reports that Buhari died on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at a hospital in London, United Kingdom.

Governor Radda said consultations were made with Buhari’s family and associates in London before concluding the burial arrangements.“We have concluded that the body will arrive in Katsina by noon and the burial will take place in Daura at about 2pm,” he said.

The governor also expressed deep condolences to the late president’s family, describing him as a father figure whose legacy of integrity and service will remain unmatched.

Security has been tightened in Daura and surrounding areas ahead of the funeral, with dignitaries from across Nigeria expected to attend.

“Buhari was a courageous leader, disciplined officer” – PDP

By Uzair Adam

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed sorrow over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a courageous leader and a highly disciplined military officer devoted to the nation’s service.

In a statement issued on Monday in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the PDP said it received the news of Buhari’s death in a London hospital with deep sadness.

According to the party, Buhari will be remembered for his various roles in public service — including his time as Governor of Borno, Federal Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources, Chairman of the defunct Petroleum Trust Fund, Military Head of State, and later, as a democratically elected President.

The PDP extended its condolences to his widow, Hajia Aisha Buhari; the entire Buhari family; the Federal Government; the Nigerian Army; the people and government of Katsina State; and the Daura Emirate.

The party also prayed for Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest.Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide as a sign of mourning and respect for the late former president.

Buhari urges Tinubu to lead with wisdom, care

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his two years in office, calling for continued support for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) government.

In a statement, Buhari emphasized that leadership is a continuous journey and urged Nigerians to remain patient as reforms take time to yield results.

Buhari warned against allowing necessary policy changes to be derailed by political disputes, stressing the importance of unity in achieving progress.

He also expressed support for the administration’s efforts to tackle poverty and inflation but noted that the responsibility should not rest on the government alone.

“The private sector and all citizens must contribute in any way they can,” he said.

Encouraging optimism, Buhari advised Nigerians to manage their expectations while remaining confident in the country’s future.

He concluded by wishing Tinubu success, saying, “May you keep leading with wisdom and care.”

Atiku, El-Rufai, Tambuwal meet Buhari behind closed doors in Kaduna

By Uzair Adam

A delegation of prominent Nigerian political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, held a closed-door meeting with former President Muhammadu Buhari at his residence in Kaduna on Friday.

Among those in attendance were former Governors Nasiru El-Rufai of Kaduna State, Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State, Gabriel Suswam of Benue State, Jibrilla Bindow of Adamawa State, and Achike Udenwa of Imo State.

While details of the meeting were not disclosed, Atiku told journalists that it was merely a post-Sallah courtesy visit to the former president.

“We came here on a courtesy and Sallah greetings visit to President Muhammadu Buhari,” he said.

When asked about the mix of political affiliations among those present, Atiku replied, “I have the right to be friends with anybody, whether political or non-political. They are all my friends.”

He also addressed speculations about the formation of a new political alliance, noting that although discussions are ongoing among opposition parties, it was not the purpose of their visit.

Atiku had earlier taken to his verified social media pages, describing the visit as a delightful one. “Today, I had the opportunity to pay a post-Sallah visit to Muhammadu Buhari… It was a wonderful time with him. As usual, he cracked me up with his peculiar humour.”

El-Rufai also briefly addressed the media, stating, “We are here to pay a Sallah visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari because I was not around during the Sallah period.”

‘I’m still a loyal APC member’—ex-President Buhari

By Anas Abbas

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has publicly reaffirmed his allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC), expressing his desire to be recognized as a loyal member of the party.

In a statement released on March 13, 2025, Buhari reiterated his dedication to the APC, the political party that facilitated his two terms in office.

“I am an APC member and I like to be addressed as such,” Buhari stated, underlining his commitment to promoting the party.

He expressed gratitude for the support he received from the APC throughout his presidency, describing it as the highest honor he could receive.

Buhari also acknowledged the efforts of the party’s founding members, highlighting their sacrifices in establishing a robust political platform aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s constitution and democracy.

He reiterated that these foundational efforts should be cherished and nurtured.

The former president’s remarks come at a time when discussions among party leaders are ongoing, though he refrained from referencing any specific individuals or current issues within the party.

Ex-President Buhari returns to Kaduna after two years in Daura

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has returned to his residence in Kaduna today, after spending two years in Daura, Katsina State, following the completion of his term in May 2023.

After leaving office, Buhari chose to live a quiet life in Daura, and distanced himself from direct political activities while focusing on personal matters.

His return to Kaduna was marked by a warm reception from his supporters.

He was, it was observed, accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima and several top government officials, including Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum; and his counterpart from Kaduna State, Uba Sani.

Other dignitaries in his entourage included former Inspector General of Police, ex-ministers, and some of his close aides.