Former Nigeria President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has expressed profound sadness over the death of Muhammadu Buhari, stating that the late president's experience and statesmanship would be greatly missed at a critical time in the nation's history.
Buhari passed away in London at approximately 4:30 pm on Sunday following a prolonged illness, leaving the nation in mourning.
In his tribute, Obasanjo reflected on Buhari's multifaceted contributions to Nigeria, saying, "It is with a heavy heart that I received this afternoon the passing to glory of a colleague, a comrade, co-patriot, General Muhammadu Buhari, who, as a soldier he played his role as soldier; as an administrator, he played his role as an administrator; as a statesman, he played his role as a statesman."
The former president emphasized the untimely nature of Buhari's death, noting that it comes at a moment when Nigeria needs the collective wisdom of its experienced leaders. "His demise comes at a time like this that we need the totality of the experience and what I may call statesmanship of all of those who have had opportunity to run the affairs of this country in the past to get us out of the situation we are in," Obasanjo remarked.
Concluding his tribute, Obasanjo stated, "He will be sorely missed, and may his soul respect in perfect peace," while praying that God grant the deceased Aljanah Firdaus.
Buhari's Legacy in Nigerian Politics
Muhammadu Buhari first came to prominence in Nigeria's leadership as a military ruler from December 31, 1983, to August 27, 1985, after overthrowing the civilian government of Shehu Shagari. His initial tenure was marked by his strict approach to governance and anti-corruption campaigns.
Decades later, Buhari made a remarkable political comeback, returning as a democratically elected president and serving two consecutive terms from 2015 to 2023. His civilian presidency focused on security challenges, economic reforms, and continued anti-corruption efforts.
The passing of the former president has elicited reactions from various political figures and citizens across the nation, with many acknowledging his contributions to Nigeria's development despite the challenges faced during his administration.
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