By Newspot Nigeria News Staff
Kaduna, Nigeria — August 3, 2025 — In a moment filled with national reflection and quiet dignity, the family of Nigeria’s late former President Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari visited the Kaduna residence of the late President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, to offer condolences following his recent passing.
The visit was led by the head of the Shagari family, Capt. Muhammad Bala Shagari (Rtd.), Sarkin Mafaran Shagari, who expressed heartfelt sympathies and solidarity with the Buhari family during this solemn time.
In a statement shared directly by Bello Bala Shagari, a grandson of the late Shehu Shagari, the historical ties and mutual respect between both families were brought to the fore:
“Today, I accompanied the head of our family, Capt. Muhammad Bala Shagari (Rtd.), Sarkin Mafaran Shagari, on a condolence visit to the family of the late President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, on behalf of the entire Shagari family,” he wrote.
“Our two families are tied by a complex yet significant chapter in Nigeria’s political history. Beyond politics, the relationship between the Shagari and Buhari families has remained cordial, even before the passing of our respective patriarchs.
“May their shortcomings be forgiven, and may their souls find eternal rest in Jannah.”
The Shagari delegation also included Alhaji Abubakar Cika Shagari, Ustaz Musa Samari, and Alhaji Shehu Aliyu Zaria. They were warmly received by Yusuf Buhari, the son of the late President.
The visit is especially poignant considering Nigeria’s political history: President Shehu Shagari, the country’s first democratically elected executive president, was overthrown in a military coup on December 31, 1983, by then-Major General Muhammadu Buhari, who subsequently assumed leadership as Head of State until 1985.
Despite this past, the Shagari and Buhari families maintained a cordial relationship through the decades, underscoring a shared commitment to public service and national interest above political rivalry.
President Buhari later returned to power as a civilian leader in 2015, serving two terms before leaving office in 2023. His passing has drawn tributes from leaders across the world.
The Shagari family’s condolence visit stands as a gesture of reconciliation, national unity, and enduring respect between two of Nigeria’s most prominent post-independence families, reminding the nation that legacies are built not only on leadership but also on character and human connection.
This report was independently verified and compiled by the editorial team at Newspot Nigeria.
