Tinubu and Opposition Leaders Keep Their Distance at Buhari’s Burial

It was a day meant for national mourning, but it also highlighted the silent tension in Nigerian politics. At the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura on Tuesday, President Bola Tinubu and top opposition figures showed up—but didn’t say a word to each other.

No Handshakes, No Small Talk

President Tinubu had declared the day a public holiday to honour his predecessor, who passed away just over two years after leaving office. While the burial drew big names from across Nigeria’s political scene, it was clear that unity wasn’t on the menu.

At the event were heavyweights like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Minister Rotimi Amaechi, and former Sokoto governor Aminu Tambuwal. Despite being in the same space, there was no interaction between them and Tinubu—not even a quick nod or handshake... Read complete content click link below

How the Day Went Down Tinubu landed at the Katsina airport at 1:42 p.m., just before the plane carrying Buhari’s remains touched down. He then led a quiet motorcade to Daura. When they got to Buhari’s home, the body was briefly placed inside the sitting room, then brought out for funeral prayers.

Tinubu stepped out of his car for the prayers, just a few steps from Atiku and others. But once the prayer ended, Atiku’s crew left right away, with some supporters even chanting “Sai Atiku” as they walked off. Meanwhile, Tinubu stayed behind, quietly watching the burial rites continue.