Why Family Members May Be Barred From Abba Kyari’s Burial

The body of the late Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, has arrived in Abuja for burial but there is every likelihood that close family members may be barred from the burial wherever it may take place.

Already, the Presidency has confirmed the arrival of the body to Abuja, but stipulations from the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) may make it impossible for family members desiring to come pay last respect to do so.

Even the World Health Organisation (WHO) states in part that the standard procedures included wearing appropriate gears, including gloves,

impermeable disposable gown [or disposable gown with impermeable apron], medical mask and eye protection) amongst others.

The family may only view the body and not touch it, they may do so, using standard precautions at all times including hand hygiene.

“ Give the family clear instructions not to touch or kiss the body;

• Embalming is not recommended to avoid excessive manipulation of the body;
• Adults -60 years and immunosuppressed persons should not directly interact with the body.

It was spokesperson to the President, Garba Shehu, who announced the arrival of the body to Abuja made this known on Saturday, via a number of tweets, Shehu explained that Kyari’s burial would be “private”.

Shehu noted that the procedures stipulated by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Federal Ministry of Health on handling the corpse of a person who died from coronavirus-related complications would be adhered to.

Kyari died on Friday in a private facility, where he was receiving treatment for coronavirus.

Shehu said, “We just received the body of Abba Kyari the deceased Chief of Staff the President in Abuja. In strict observation of the protocol put in place for the burial of Coronavirus victims by the NCDC and the Federal Ministry of Health, the funeral prayer and burial will be private.

“Thereafter, there will be no such ceremonies as condolence visits. Well-meaning friends, family members and the general public are encouraged to pray for the repose of Abba Kyari’s soul. May Allah grant the family and nation the fortitude to bear the loss.”

The Personal Assistant on New Media to the President, Basir Ahmad, also tweeted, “The remaining of Mallam Abba Kyari has arrived in Abuja where he will later today, be buried according to Islamic rites.”