One month after the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, his domestic workers in Daura say the void left by their late boss is yet to be filled.
Buhari, who died at a London hospital on July 13, 2025, aged 82, was buried in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State. Known for his humility and personal touch, the former president, they said, was more than an employer — he was a mentor, friend, and guardian.
“Our late boss was more than our employer, he was a guardian and a close friend to us and our families,” one worker, who requested anonymity, told The PUNCH. “This one month with the thought of his no return has indeed shown a cool world of emptiness around here.”
Another staff member recalled Buhari’s habit of attending personal milestones of his workers.
“He would visit our homes for condolences or naming ceremonies, staying for hours to offer comfort and prayers without regard for his status,” the worker said. “He will be missed because we have lost a friend, mentor, and employer. His presence brought us pride.”
During a visit to Buhari’s residence on Wednesday, our correspondent observed a well-decorated gravesite in the late president’s compound, draped in green and white — the colours of the Nigerian flag.
The once-bustling streets around the house have returned to normal, with only a light security presence compared to the heavy deployment in the days after his burial.
A source close to the family said preparations were underway for the 40-day prayer ceremony, expected to draw large crowds back to Daura.
“After Baba’s burial and the relocation of his family to Kaduna, the area has been quiet. Insha Allah, in the next 10 days, the family will return for the prayers,” the source said.
Neighbours in Daura also paid tribute to Buhari’s legacy.
Mohammed Ibrahim described him as “a well-cultured, humble, and disciplined individual” who valued time, upheld daily prayers, and treated all with respect.
The former president’s death, they said, has left a lasting reminder of life’s brevity and of the character that made him beloved in his hometown and beyond.
