By Aminu Garko, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
The quiet town of Daura in Katsina State played host to the nation’s political elite on Tuesday as it bid farewell to its most accomplished son, Muhammadu Buhari, the nation’s immediate past president, ex-military Head of State, and retired Major-General.
The city hosted the nation’s political gladiators led by President Bola Tinubu, business moguls, top military brass, both serving and retired diplomats to pay their last respect to the late president.
The list of dignitaries also included Vice-President Kashim Shettima, former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea Bissau, and Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine of Niger Republic.
Other notable attendees include Service Chiefs, industrial leaders, former governors, a representative of the President of Chad, Islamic clerics, and other prominent personalities from within and outside Nigeria.
Buhari died at a London clinic on Sunday at the age of 82 after a protracted illness according to a statement by his media aide, Malam Garba Shehu.
The announcement of the death of the erstwhile president came as a rude shock to many Nigerians as it was earlier said that he was recuperating.
Buhari’s remarkable journey in Nigeria’s political landscape began on July 29, 1975, when he was appointed Governor of the North-Eastern State.
On Feb. 3, 1976 the North Eastern State was split into Bauchi, Borno and Gongola and Buhari was appointed the first governor of Borno before his tenure was cut short by the coup that ousted Gen. Murtala Mohammed.
He later appointed Federal Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources by the Olusegun Obasanjo-led junta and oversaw the establishment of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) the most prominent player in Nigeria’s oil industry.
As a military leader, General Buhari demonstrated exceptional courage and strategic prowess, notably repelling Chadian troops from Nigerian territory during his tenure as General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 3rd Division in Jos.
As Head of State (1984-1985), he showcased his leadership abilities. Later, as Chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF), he managed the fund judiciously, addressing infrastructural deficiencies and providing medical support services.
In 2015, on the ticket of All Progressives Congress (APC), Buhari emerged victorious in the presidential election after several attempts, having anchored his campaign on tough stance against corruption.
He relinquished power to Incumbent Bola Tinubu after reaching the ceiling of two tenures of eight years.
A true patriot and nationalist, President Buhari’s legacy is marked by discipline, capable leadership, honesty, and integrity.
His passing leaves a void, but his impact on Nigeria’s history remains profound.
Among those who paid tribute to the fallen hero was retired Gen. Ibrahim Babangida who toppled his regime in 1985.
“I’m deeply saddened by the sudden demise of my friend, brother, course mate, and fellow soldier.
“We shared a bond forged by military training and a commitment to service, discipline, and love for Nigeria.
“From our early days at the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna, Muhammadu stood out – quiet yet resolute, principled yet humble, deeply patriotic, and fiercely loyal.
“We shared experiences, dreams, and disappointments, but he remained consistent in his belief in integrity, order, and dignity of public office,’’ the retired military president said.
According to him, as a leader, Buhari served the nation with every sense of responsibility and unwavering commitment.
Beyond the public glare, I knew him as a deeply spiritual man, humble and guided by faith.
“Though we may not have agreed on everything, I never doubted his sincerity or patriotism.
“His passing is not just the loss of a former Head of State or President, but a symbol of Nigeria’s transition from the old guard to the new republic,’’ Babangida said.
Similarly, retired Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, also a former military Head of State, described the late Buhari as a great patriot and statesman who greatly contributed to Nigeria’s socio-economic and political development.
Abubakar, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in a telephone interview on Monday that: “from God we came, and to Him we shall all return”.
He said that Buhari would be greatly missed by his family, friends, and indeed all Nigerians, and prayed for God’s repose of his soul.
“The death of President Buhari is a painful one, but who are we to question the will of Almighty Allah? We have lost an honest, sincere leader and a patriotic Nigerian at this critical time.
“May Allah forgive his shortcomings and give the family and indeed all Nigerians the strength to bear this loss,” Abubakar said.
He underscored Buhari’s efforts in fighting corruption during both his military and civilian administrations as well as implementing measures that significantly impacted Nigeria’s political and economic trajectories.
He praised Buhari as a detribalised Nigerian, consensus builder, and selfless leader who worked tirelessly to maintain the country’s unity.
Retired Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, describes late Buhari as a great patriot and statesman who significantly contributed to Nigeria’s development.
Similarly, Sen. Sani Musa expressed grief and shock over Buhari’s death, describing him as a great leader who leveraged his vast experience to serve the nation.
“Buhari’s life is widely regarded as exemplary and worthy of emulation,” Musa said.
Musa commended Buhari’s life as exemplary, marked by patriotism, good works, humility, and dedication to public service.
He highlights Buhari’s efforts in instilling discipline and combating corruption, adding that they left a lasting impact on Nigeria.
The lawmaker described him as a patriot, bridge-builder, and exceptional public servant who lived a modest life.
The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Sen. David Mark, expressed sadness over Buhari’s death, describing his legacy of selfless service as unparalleled.
“It’s sad that President Buhari passed away at this critical time, but we’re consoled that his legacy of keeping the nation united will endure,” Mark said.
Mark said Nigeria has lost a hero, an uncommon patriot, and a selfless leader who gave his all for the nation’s good.
He highlighted Buhari’s love for the country, especially its unity, as his greatest sacrifice.
**If used please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria.
