President Muhammadu Buhari has joined the rest of the world to mourn the passing of President Pierre Nkurunziza who died on Tuesday following a cardiac arrest.
The 55-year old was admitted to hospital on Saturday after feeling unwell, his condition improved but on Monday he had a cardiac arrest and efforts to revive him were unsuccessful, officials say.
After 15 years in power, he was due to step down in August.
“It is with profound grief and sadness that we received the news of the death of President Pierre Nkurunziza,” President Buhari said.
“President Nkurunziza was a true patriot that steered the country through turbulent times with wisdom and foresight.
“At this time of great pain and loss, the government and people of Nigeria as well as myself, express our deepest condolences to the Government and people of Burundi.
“Our thoughts and prayers also go out to the family of the President. May God grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.”
