The remains of Nigeria's former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away at 82 on Sunday in a London clinic, are being returned to his hometown in Katsina state for burial.
Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina state, who is in London with Buhari's family, confirmed that the burial will take place later on Monday in Daura, a town 50 miles (80km) from Katsina city.
Nigeria's Vice President, Kashim Shettima, is also in London and will accompany Buhari's remains back to Nigeria.
"I have just left his family at the hospital where he passed away. The decision has been made to bring his body to Daura for the funeral, with plans to depart in the morning," Radda told DW Hausa.
The vice president also confirmed Daura as Buhari’s final resting place in a social media post after arriving in London.
He mentioned that Buhari passed away following a short illness, though he did not provide additional details. However, it is known that Buhari had been battling health issues for several years.
Despite being a former president, there will not be a state funeral for Buhari. In keeping with Islamic customs, he will be buried as soon as possible in a simple ceremony, according to Islamic cleric Abdullahi Garangamawa, who spoke to the BBC.
"The only reason Buhari's body wouldn't be buried today (Monday) is if it arrives in Daura at night, as Islam prohibits night burials. If that happens, Tuesday morning will be suitable," the cleric explained.
Tributes continue to pour in for the late military leader, who was one of only two individuals to have served as Nigeria’s president both in military and civilian capacities post-independence.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, who was defeated by Buhari in the 2015 election, praised the late leader as someone who "was selfless in his commitment to duty and served the country with character and patriotism."
Former military leader General Ibrahim Babangida, who overthrew Buhari in a 1985 coup, also commended the late president.
"He was a man who, even in retirement, remained a moral guide to many and an example of modesty in public life," Babangida remarked.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is expected to attend the funeral prayers in Daura, has announced a seven-day national mourning period to honour his predecessor.
In a formal condolence statement issued on Sunday evening, Tinubu affirmed that the nation would pay its final respects to Buhari with dignity and honour, beginning with flags being lowered to half-mast across the country starting Sunday.