President Muhammadu Buhari has declared three days national mourning in honor of late President Shehu Shagari, who died on Friday
The President directed that flags should fly at half-mast in military and para-military formations, as well as public buildings for three days, starting from Sunday, December 30, 2018.
This is just as the former President, was laid to rest in his home town in Shagari Local government in Sokoto state on Saturday
In a statement President Buhari personally signed on Saturday night, he declared: “The late President represented almost the last link with the government of our Founding Fathers under Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. He was also the first elected President of Nigeria.
According to him, “ The late Alhaji Shagari was a man of many parts: teacher, local authority administrator, politician, minister, and finally President. He served his country with dedication and moderation.
“Over the years, through interaction at the Council of State, he and I came to understand and appreciate each other, whatever the differences we may have had in the past.”
“On behalf of the Federal Government, myself and family, I send my condolences to the people of Nigeria, particularly to the late President’s family and the Government and people of Sokoto State. May his soul Rest In Peace”
Buhari had earlier expressed great sadness at the news of the passing away of the First Executive President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Secretary to the government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha led the federal government delegation at the burial of the late President in his home town.
Tony Ailemen , Abuja
