Atiku Abubakar, El-Rufai Visit Buhari’s Gravesite in Daura

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, on Wednesday morning, visited the gravesite of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura, Katsina State. The visit was part of activities marking the third-day Fidau prayer in accordance with Islamic rites. The two prominent politicians arrived early at the Daura residence of the late president, where the prayer session was held. The solemn gathering was attended by Islamic clerics, traditional leaders, family members, and dignitaries from across the country. During the visit, Atiku and El-Rufai stood in a moment of reflection at Buhari’s graveside, offering prayers for the repose of his soul. Quranic verses were recited by clerics, and supplications were made asking Allah for mercy and forgiveness for the deceased. After the prayers, both men met privately with the Buhari family to express their condolences. They offered words of comfort to the late president’s widow, Aisha Buhari, and other relatives present. Speaking briefly to reporters, Atiku described Buhari as a significant figure in Nigeria’s history and praised his commitment to public service. El-Rufai also commended the former president’s dedication to national development, stating that his contributions would not be forgotten. The visit comes days after Buhari was buried in his hometown following his death in a London hospital on July 13, 2025. He was interred on July 15 in accordance with Islamic tradition. The federal government has declared a week of national mourning, with flags flown at half-mast and special prayers held nationwide. President Bola Tinubu has directed that full Islamic rites be observed for the late president. Buhari, who ruled Nigeria as a military leader from 1983 to 1985 and later as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023, remains a polarizing but influential figure in the country’s political history. The visit by Atiku and El-Rufai is one of several condolence gestures from national leaders following his passing.