Abuja/London
In an unusual turn of events, former President Muhammadu Buhari’s casket was placed in the main cabin of a Nigerian Air Force jet during its repatriation—marking a break from standard protocol of storing coffins in the cargo hold.
According to military sources, ground crews in London discovered that the flag-draped casket was too large for the aircraft’s cargo compartment. Faced with this hurdle—and unwilling to encase the remains in a body bag—handlers spent time meticulously securing the casket for interior transport.
“To avoid using a body bag… it took considerable persuasion to wrap the remains properly and drape them in the national flag,” a source explained. Cabin seats were collapsed and tables lowered to fashion a bed-like platform, ensuring the coffin was stabilized and respected during transit.
As a gesture of military honour, nine senior officers—including Maj‑Gen Mike Alechenu, Maj‑Gen Mohammed Usman, Rear Adm Suleiman Dahun, and Air Vice Marshal Adeniyi Amesinlola—acted as pallbearers. They wheeled the flag-draped casket on a trolley, escorted by a military guard of honour and led in solemn procession by President Tinubu, Vice President Shettima, former VP Osinbajo, and other dignitaries.
Upon landing at Katsina’s Yar'Adua International Airport—President Tinubu personally received the remains—the dignified proceedings transitioned into a military hearse for the final hour-long journey to Daura. The service culminated in full military rites, including a 21-gun salute.
Why It Matters
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Protocol vs. dignity: This decision prioritized honoring the former head of state over adherence to standard cargo procedures.
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Operational improvisation: The adaptation of cabin space highlights the logistical efforts to ensure respect under challenging circumstances.
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Symbolic unity: The joint military‑government ceremony reinforced national solidarity and honour during the former president's final journey.
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Public expectations: The choice sparked public commentary—some praised the respect shown; others questioned Nigeria’s preparedness for high-profile repatriations.
