The Katsina State Government has declared Monday a work-free day as a mark of respect for former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London Sunday afternoon.

Abdullahi Faskari, the Secretary to the Government of Katsina State, announced the holiday in a statement, Sunday evening.

He said the public holiday is intended to allow workers and residents of Katsina to participate in a period of mourning and prayer for the late leader.

According to the statement, Governor Dikko Radda extended his deepest condolences to the family of the former president, the people of Katsina, and the entire nation.

The governor lauded President Buhari as a “great leader, a hero, a true democrat and a patriotic elder statesman whose life was dedicated to the service of Nigeria.”

He offered prayers for the departed soul, asking Almighty Allah (SWT) to grant mercy, forgive his shortcomings, and reward his good deeds with Aljannatul Firdaus.

Further details regarding the burial arrangements for the late president are expected to be released to the public shortly.