Senate President Godswill Akpabio has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as “a statesman and leader of great integrity” whose legacy will continue to inspire generations.
Buhari died on Sunday at a clinic in London at the age of 82, following a prolonged illness.
In a statement personally signed by him, Senator Akpabio extended heartfelt condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the government and people of Katsina State and the immediate family of the late president.
“It is with profound sadness that I received the news of the passing of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Akpabio said.
“I am deeply pained that he died when his wise counsel is needed most in this country.”
He described Buhari as “a fine military officer who served Nigeria with zeal and patriotism” who later transitioned into “a democratic icon.”
“Through hard work, patience, uncommon resilience and discipline, Gen. Buhari became the first opposition candidate to defeat a sitting president in the history of Nigeria,” he said.
“His leadership and legacy will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to our nation’s development and stability.”
Akpabio praised Buhari’s trademark simplicity, honesty and fierce anti-corruption stance, calling him the true ‘Mai Gaskiya’, a title meaning “man of truth” in Hausa.
“Buhari commanded an unprecedented cult followership in the political history of Nigeria due to his characteristic stance against corruption, unrelenting pursuit of genuine democratic ideals, and his staunch support for the unity and stability of the nation,” the Senate president said.
Recalling his own time as a minister under Buhari’s administration, Akpabio said, “He lived a Spartan life, thinking about the welfare of the people, especially the less privileged. He was a leader worth emulating.”
He concluded with prayers for the late president’s family and loved ones, saying, “May Allah grant him Aljannatul Firdaus in his eternal kingdom.”
