In a heartfelt show of respect, thousands of residents across Gombe State gathered on Tuesday, July 15, to offer Salat al-Gha’ib, a funeral prayer held in absentia, for former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died in London at the age of 83.
The largest gathering took place near Pantami Township Stadium, where clerics and community members stood shoulder to shoulder, reciting prayers and seeking Allah’s mercy for the late leader.
“We are here to seek Allah’s mercy for our former president. He served this country with dedication. May Allah forgive his sins and grant him the highest level of paradise,” said Sheikh Usman Bello, one of the clerics who led the solemn prayer.
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Though Buhari passed away far from home, the pain of his loss was deeply felt across Gombe. Many in attendance described him not just as a former head of state, but as a figure who influenced their lives and values.
Across mosques and open grounds in the state, prayer sessions were held peacefully, with communities coming together to honour a man whose leadership spanned decades.
Buhari led Nigeria twice, first as a military ruler from 1983 to 1985, and then as an elected president from 2015 to 2023.
Known for his tough stance on corruption and conservative leadership style, his influence on national politics continues to spark debate and reflection even in death.