The Federal Government has declared Tuesday a public holiday in honour of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in a London hospital after a prolonged illness.
In a statement issued on Monday in Abuja, Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga announced the decision, noting that the special Federal Executive Council (FEC) session earlier scheduled for the same day had been postponed due to Buhari’s state funeral in Daura.
He added that a new date for the FEC session would be announced by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation following the funeral.
President Bola Tinubu had convened the special session to recognise Buhari’s contributions to national development.
According to the statement, the former President’s remains are expected to arrive from London at noon on Tuesday for burial in his hometown of Daura, in accordance with Islamic rites.
Tinubu had earlier declared a seven-day period of national mourning, directing that all flags be flown at half-mast across the country.
The President also dispatched Vice President Kashim Shettima and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila to London to commiserate with Buhari’s family and accompany the late leader’s remains back to Nigeria.
(NAN)