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The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, July 15, 2025, as a nationwide public holiday in honour of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday at the age of 82.
TJ News Nigeria reports that the announcement was made on Monday by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, following the approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to the minister, the public holiday is intended to allow Nigerians reflect on Buhari’s life and years of service to the nation, both as military Head of State (1984–1985) and as a democratically elected President (2015–2023).
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Nigerians React Fiercely to Holiday Declaration
However, the declaration has sparked widespread outrage across social media platforms, with many Nigerians—particularly youths—condemning the move.
TJ News Nigeria gathered that critics argue Buhari does not deserve a national day of mourning, citing his administration’s legacy of:
- Economic hardship
- Insecurity
- Suppression of dissent
- Mass youth unemployment
- Alleged corruption and nepotism
Hashtags like #NoHolidayForTyranny and #BuhariFailedUs began trending on X (formerly Twitter) shortly after the announcement.
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Pay Attention To: 10 Reasons Why Ordinary Nigerians Are Celebrating Buhari’s Death Instead of Mourning
Public Backlash from Citizens
One user wrote:
“Public holiday for a man who led us into recession twice, oversaw #EndSARS violence, and watched inflation ruin our lives? Tinubu has no shame.”
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Another post read:
“We didn’t get a public holiday for the Lekki Toll Gate victims, but we are getting one for the man many youths blame for it.”
Activists and Influencers React
Several prominent activists, including figures from the #EndSARS movement, have also criticized the Tinubu-led government.
A youth leader from Lagos, speaking to TJ News Nigeria, said:
“This public holiday is not a unifying gesture; it’s a tone-deaf provocation. Buhari’s leadership harmed millions of young Nigerians, and now the same system wants us to honour him? We reject it.”
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Presidency Yet to Respond to Backlash
As of press time, neither President Tinubu nor the Minister of Information has issued a statement in response to the public backlash. There is also no indication that the government intends to reverse the decision.
Buhari’s Burial Plans
TJ News Nigeria learnt that Buhari’s family has opted for a private burial in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, in line with Islamic rites.
However, a state memorial ceremony is reportedly being planned in Abuja later in the week, to be attended by foreign dignitaries, past leaders, and top government officials.
Key Takeaway
While the Federal Government has moved to honour the late Buhari with a national holiday, the decision has reignited public anger over his controversial legacy. Many Nigerians view the move as an affront to their suffering during his eight years in office.
TJ News Nigeria will continue to monitor reactions and official updates regarding national mourning arrangements.
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