Prominent human rights advocate and former Chairman of Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, has questioned the Federal Government’s decision to declare a public holiday to honour late former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing it as politically motivated and lacking precedent.
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Reacting on social media platform X, Odinkalu highlighted a string of Nigerian leaders who died while in office without receiving similar national honours. He wrote:
“Abubakar Tafawa Balewa died in office – No public holiday
Aguiyi-Ironsi died in office – No public holiday
Murtala Mohammed died in office – No public holiday
Sani Abacha died in office – No public holiday
#UMYA (Umaru Musa Yar’Adua) died in office – No public holiday.”
The sharp criticism comes amid growing public debate over the rationale behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to declare Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a public holiday in memory of Buhari, who died at the age of 82 in a London clinic after a prolonged illness.
While the government described the holiday as a chance for Nigerians to reflect on Buhari’s life, leadership, and values, many have seen it as an unusual gesture, particularly given the absence of state funerals or public holidays for previous presidents and heads of state who passed away while serving.
Political observers say the move may be aimed at consolidating northern support ahead of the 2027 general elections. “This isn’t about legacy; it’s about strategy,” one analyst said, accusing the presidency of leveraging Buhari’s northern popularity for electoral gain.
Despite no formal state funeral, President Tinubu has declared a seven-day national mourning period, during which all national flags are to fly at half-mast. Buhari’s remains are expected to arrive in Katsina by noon on Tuesday, with a private Islamic burial scheduled in his hometown, Daura, by 2:00 pm.
Meanwhile, tributes have continued to pour in from across the political spectrum. Former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Ibrahim Babangida hailed Buhari’s character and commitment to public service, with Babangida describing him as “a moral compass” even in retirement.
However, voices like Odinkalu’s highlight a deeper tension in the national discourse: whether Nigeria’s current leaders are consistent in honouring the dead — or simply selective for political gain.
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