Odinkalu Condemns Tinubu’s Public Holiday for Buhari, Citing Political Motives and Absence of Similar Honours for Past Leaders
Prominent human rights advocate and former Chairman of Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission, Professor Chidi Odinkalu, has criticised the Federal Government’s decision to declare a public holiday in honour of late former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing it as politically motivated and without precedent.
Reacting on the social media platform X, Odinkalu pointed out that several Nigerian leaders who died while in office were not accorded similar national recognition. He wrote:
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“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.”
His remarks have added to the growing public debate over the rationale behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of Tuesday, July 15, 2025, as a public holiday to commemorate Buhari, who died at the age of 82 in a London clinic after a prolonged illness.
Although the government framed the holiday as an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on Buhari’s life, leadership, and values, many have questioned the move, noting that similar gestures were not extended to previous presidents and heads of state who passed away while serving.
Political analysts suggest the holiday may be a strategic move aimed at bolstering northern support in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections. “This isn’t about legacy; it’s about strategy,” one analyst said, accusing the Tinubu administration of using Buhari’s enduring popularity in the North for political advantage.
Despite the absence of a formal state funeral, President Tinubu has declared a seven-day national mourning period, during which 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 to follow in his hometown, Daura, at 2:00 p.m.
Meanwhile, tributes have continued to pour in from across Nigeria’s political spectrum. Former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Ibrahim Babangida praised Buhari’s character and service, with Babangida describing him as “a moral compass” even after his retirement from active politics.
However, voices like Odinkalu’s underscore a deeper national concern: whether Nigerian leaders are consistent in honouring past presidents — or simply selective when political interests are at stake.
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