Katsina State has declared Monday a public holiday to honour late President Muhammadu Buhari.
The state urged residents to reflect on his legacy and offer prayers in solemn remembrance.
The Katsina State Government has declared Monday, July 14, 2025, a public holiday in honor of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died earlier in the day in London.
The decision to observe a day of mourning was announced on Sunday evening, just hours after the passing of the elder statesman was confirmed by his family. Katsina, the home state of the late president, will observe the public holiday to allow residents to reflect on Buhari’s legacy and offer prayers in line with Islamic tradition.
In a brief statement issued by the state government, authorities noted that the former president was not only a national figure but also a revered son of Katsina, and his loss is deeply felt by people across the state and the country at large. “Tomorrow, Monday, July 14, has been declared a public holiday to mourn and honor our father, leader, and son of the soil, Muhammadu Buhari,” the statement read.
Buhari served as Nigeria’s military ruler from 1983 to 1985 before returning to power as a democratically elected president in 2015, a position he held until 2023. His political career spanned several decades, marked by a commitment to fighting corruption, reforming governance, and strengthening national security.
During his eight years as president, Buhari introduced several economic policies, including the Anchor Borrowers’ Program, social investment schemes, and foreign exchange reforms. While his administration faced criticism on issues like insecurity and inflation, supporters often praised his integrity and efforts to reposition Nigeria on the global stage.
The announcement of his death came via a social media post by his former aide, Bashir Ahmad, who stated that Buhari passed away in a London clinic. “The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London. May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus. Amin,” Ahmad wrote.
Since the news broke, tributes have poured in from across Nigeria and beyond, with political leaders, traditional rulers, and members of the public acknowledging Buhari’s contributions to the country. Many described him as a disciplined leader whose impact will remain part of Nigeria’s political history.
In Katsina, mosques and prayer groups have already begun organizing special prayers for the repose of his soul. Community leaders have also called on residents to observe the public holiday solemnly and avoid any form of celebration that contradicts the mourning period.
The federal government is yet to announce a national day of mourning or funeral arrangements, but sources close to the family suggest that Buhari will be buried in accordance with Islamic rites, possibly in Daura, his hometown in Katsina State.
