Victor EzejaNigeria’s president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, opposition figure, Peter Obi, and Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, have expressed sorrow over the death of ex-president, Muhammadu Buhari.
Buhari reportedly died on Sunday afternoon at a hospital in the United Kingdom. Tinubu said he received the sad news of the death of his predecessor with deep sorrow.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelAccording to a statement by Bayo Onanuga Special Adviser to Tinubu on information and Strategy, the President described Buhari as “a patriot, a soldier, a statesman” and that “his legacy of service and sacrifice endures.”
Tinubu noted that Buhari served Nigeria with unwavering dedication both as a military leader from January 1984 to August 1985, and later as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023.
“Duty, honour, and a deep commitment to the unity and progress of our nation defined his life,” Tinubu stated.
The incumbent president further stated that Buhari led with “profound integrity”, had a strong belief in Nigeria’s potential, confronted corruption and championed discipline in public service.
Tinubu extended his deepest condolences to Buhari’s wife, Aisha, and the entire family.
The president also extended his condolences to the government and people of Katsina State, most especially the people and traditional leaders of Daura Emirate.
“We honour his service. We reflect on his legacy. And we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.”
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As a mark of respect to the former leader, Tinubu said he has directed that all national flags fly at half-staff across the country for seven days starting from Sunday.
The president, who said he has summoned an emergency Federal Executive Council session on Tuesday, dedicated to the honour of Buhari, disclosed that the late former leader will be given “full state honours befitting his towering contributions to our country.”
Tinubu prayed that Allah may forgive the late ex-leader’s shortcomings and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus.
On his part, Peter Obi, a former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, said Buhari’s death presents a solemn moment, not just for his family and close associates, but the entire nation.
“President Buhari has always comported himself in a dignified manner as a leader. To his wife, children, extended family, and to all Nigerians, I extend my deepest condolences.
“May Almighty Allah, Most Gracious and Most Merciful, forgive President Buhari’s shortcomings, reward his efforts in service to the nation, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus,” Obi stated.
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Governor Sanwo-Olu described Buhari as a courageous, disciplined, and passionate leader.
“His commitment to the growth and development of Nigeria is worthy of emulation because he provided honest and transparent leadership in the country,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
“He sacrificed the greater part of his life in the service of our dear country. He contributed immensely to the unity, growth and development of Nigeria and served passionately as Military Governor, Minister of Petroleum Resources, Head of State, and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.”
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
