President Muhammadu Buhari and Governor Aminu Tambuwal shared the same vehicle on Sunday, the News Agency of Nigeria reports.
Mr Tambuwal would have been the main challenger to President Buhari in next year’s presidential election had the Sokoto governor won the ticket of the main opposition party, PDP.
The governor emerged runner-up, losing the ticket to current PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.
Messrs Buhari and Tambuwal on Sunday joined sympathisers and family members to offer special prayers for the repose of the soul of late former President Shehu Shagari at his private residence in Sokoto State.
NAN reports that Mr Tambuwal and his counterpart from Kebbi, Atiku Bagudu, as well as prominent citizens from within and outside Sokoto, who accompanied the president, participated in the prayer session.
“The late Alhaji Shagari was a man of many parts, teacher, local authority administrator, politician, minister, and finally President. He served his country with dedication and moderation.
“Over the years through interaction at the Council of State, he and I came to understand and appreciate each other whatever the differences we may have had in the past.
“On behalf of the Federal Government, myself and family, I send my condolences to the people of Nigeria, particularly to the late President’s family and the government and people of Sokoto State. May his soul rest in peace.”
Alhaji Bala Shagari, the eldest son of the deceased had on behalf of the family, expressed appreciation to Buhari for the visit amid his busy schedule.
NAN
