Top Nigerian political leaders, religious scholars, and traditional rulers gathered in Daura, Katsina State, on Wednesday for the Fidda’u prayer held in honour of late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in a London hospital on Sunday and was buried on Tuesday.
Leading the mourners were Vice President Kashim Shettima, Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State, and Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State, along with a host of former political office holders and prominent national figures.
Among the high-profile attendees were:
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi, Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, Former Katsina Governor, Aminu Bello Masari, NDLEA Chairman, Buba Marwa, Emir of Daura, HRH Faruk Umar Faruk, Former Army Chief, Yusuf Tukur Buratai, Former Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, Former Minister of Communication, Isa Ali Pantami, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adua, Former Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika, Former DG of NIA, Ahmad Rufa’I, Deputy Governor of Katsina State, Faruk Jobe
The Fidda’u prayer, also known as Fidyah, is an Islamic tradition of prayers and charity performed on behalf of the deceased, often observed on the 3rd, 8th, 40th, 100th day, or annually. It is a moment of spiritual reflection, seeking forgiveness and mercy for the deceased, and a way to continue benefiting them through acts of charity and prayer.
The solemn ceremony featured:
- Recitation of the Holy Qur’an
- Prayers for forgiveness and divine mercy
- Charitable offerings in memory of the late leader
The event was marked by deep reflection and unity across political and religious divides, with many describing Buhari’s death as the end of an era in Nigeria’s political history.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier attended the burial ceremony on Tuesday, reaffirming the late president’s enduring influence on the nation.
As tributes continue to pour in, Buhari is being remembered for his decades-long public service, his role in democracy and military leadership, and his personal integrity and religious devotion.
