New revelations have emerged concerning the final hours of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, as narrated by his close family members and his trusted confidant, Mamman Daura.
During an emotional conversation with THISDAY, these family sources shared detailed accounts of Buhari’s last moments, painting a picture of a man who appeared to be on the path to recovery before his unexpected passing.
According to Daura, who is not only Buhari’s nephew but also a lifelong friend and confidant, he spent significant time with the late President on Saturday at the London clinic where Buhari had been receiving treatment. Daura revealed that plans were already in place for Buhari’s discharge later that week, and there was optimism surrounding his return to Nigeria.
He emphasized that Buhari was in a lively and cheerful mood throughout their time together on Saturday. The former President reportedly discussed future plans, his eagerness to return home, and expressed gratitude to those who had traveled to London to support him during his medical stay. Daura noted that Buhari was particularly concerned with ensuring that all hotel bills for his aides and visitors were settled before his return, demonstrating his characteristic thoughtfulness even in his final days.
Other family members corroborated Daura’s account, mentioning that there were no visible warning signs that Buhari’s health would deteriorate so suddenly. They described how he appeared stable and even joyful, giving them hope that he would soon reunite with them in Nigeria.
Daura recounted that after spending a joyful Saturday with Buhari, he left around 9 p.m., with a promise to return the next day. Buhari was reportedly looking forward to his doctor’s morning check-up on Sunday and was in high spirits, anticipating a positive update on his recovery process.
However, everything changed unexpectedly on Sunday. According to the family, while Buhari was having his breakfast around midday, he started experiencing severe breathing difficulties. Medical personnel at the clinic responded swiftly, rushing to his side in an attempt to stabilize him. Despite their best efforts and the advanced medical care available, Buhari’s condition deteriorated rapidly.
By approximately 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, the former President sadly passed away, leaving his family and loved ones in shock and deep mourning. THISDAY was informed that his final hours were marked by sudden complications rather than a prolonged decline, adding to the sorrow felt by those close to him.
“We were together on Saturday talking and laughing and Buhari was in high spirits in the London Clinic where he was admitted. We talked about everything. He even had the plan to depart for Nigeria upon his discharge this week and made sure that arrangements were made to sort out the hotel bills of everybody who was in London on his behalf before departing.
“I left him about 9pm on Saturday in high spirits and promised to see him on Sunday afternoon. He was looking forward to his doctor’s visit on Sunday morning. But around midday, he started having breathing challenges and doctors rushed to his side to try and manage it. But unfortunately, around 4.30 pm, he gave up the ghost.”