Tributes have poured in from across the nation and beyond, celebrating the life and legacy of a leader whose name became synonymous with discipline, integrity, and unyielding patriotism.
Recall that the former President and elder statesman passed away yesterday afternoon at a clinic in London following a prolonged illness.
Former military President and longtime friend, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd.), popularly known as IBB, in an emotional tribute, described Buhari as more than just a political leader, calling him a brother, friend, and patriot whose life spanned Nigeria’s critical transitions.
He wrote: “Our paths crossed in 1962 when we joined the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna. From those early days, Muhammadu stood out — quiet, yet resolute; principled, yet humble; deeply patriotic and fiercely loyal to Nigeria”.
Reflecting on their decades-long bond, Babangida described Buhari as a man who embodied service and discipline throughout his military and civilian leadership. “He served Nigeria with a deep sense of responsibility and unwavering commitment, even when the road was lonely or misunderstood. His passing today is not just the loss of a former Head of State or a two-term civilian President. It is the loss of a symbol — a man whose life embodied the transition of Nigeria from the old guard to the new republic”, he stated.
Alsi, internationally acclaimed Islamic scholar, Mufti Menk joined in mourning, revealing that Buhari’s death brought him to tears. He described the late President as “an upright man, who never missed his prayers and a very disciplined believer who served his people to the best of his ability. His name was synonymous with integrity”.
For Nigeria’s ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), Buhari’s death marks the end of an era. In a statement signed by its Acting National Chairman, Hon. Bukar Dalori, the party praised Buhari’s extraordinary journey — from military Head of State to the first opposition leader to defeat an incumbent President in 2015, becoming the face of Nigeria’s democratic resilience. “Nigeria has lost an enigmatic leader, iconic elder-statesman, and exemplary patriot whose life of resolve, resilience, discipline and integrity will remain evergreen in the hearts of Nigerians”, the party stated.
As condolences pour in for his wife A’isha, his children, and grandchildren, many Nigerians are reflecting on the enduring legacy of a leader whose life of discipline, faith, and modesty left an indelible mark on the nation.
