Vice President Kashim Shettima, alongside several prominent Nigerian political figures, gathered in Daura on Wednesday to attend the Fidda’u prayer for the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Also in attendance were Governors Babagana Zulum of Borno and Dikko Radda of Katsina, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
The solemn prayer, held in Buhari’s hometown, drew dignitaries and supporters from across the political spectrum, reflecting the late president’s enduring national influence.
Buhari, who passed away in a London hospital on Sunday, was buried in accordance with Islamic rites on Tuesday in Daura, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu among those present.
In Islamic tradition, the Fidda’u prayer—sometimes referred to as Fidyah—is performed on behalf of the deceased. It is both a spiritual and charitable act, meant to seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness for the departed. While commonly held on the 3rd, 8th, 40th, or 100th day after death, the prayer can be observed on any date chosen by the family.
Relatives, friends, and community members participate in the prayer, combining remembrance with almsgiving to honor the memory of the deceased and benefit their soul in the hereafter. It is regarded as a vital expression of faith, solidarity, and continuity within the Islamic mourning tradition.
