The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, described him as a statesman and leader of great integrity.
Buhari, Nigeria’s immediate past president, died on Sunday at a London clinic at the age of 82.
In a statement personally signed by him, Akpabio extended condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the government and people of Katsina State, and the family of the late former president.
“It is with profound sadness that I received the news of the passing of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR. I am deeply pained that he died when his wise counsel is needed most in this country,” Akpabio stated.
The Senate President offered sympathies on behalf of his family, constituents, the 10th Senate, and the entire National Assembly, noting the former president’s dedication to service and discipline.
Akpabio hailed Buhari as “a fine military officer that served Nigeria with zeal and patriotism and upon retirement transited to a democratic icon.”
He recalled Buhari’s historic election victory in 2015, noting, “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. His leadership and legacy will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to our nation’s development and stability.”
“He was indeed, the real ‘Mai Gaskiya’,” Akpabio added, referring to the late president’s widely acknowledged reputation for truthfulness and integrity.
The Senate President also praised Buhari’s austere lifestyle and deep concern for the masses, describing him as a man who lived simply and governed with sincerity. “Having worked closely with him as a minister, I can attest to the fact that he lived a Spartan life, thinking about the welfare of the people, especially the less privileged.”
He prayed for the repose of the former president’s soul and for strength for his family. “May Allah grant him Aljannatul Firdaus in his eternal kingdom,” Akpabio concluded.
