Senate President Godswill Akpabio made a significant verbal slip on Wednesday while attempting to commend President Bola Tinubu for his role in the burial arrangements of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Speaking on the floor of the Senate, Akpabio erroneously stated that "The whole country is very proud of what this administration has done in the way and manner President Bola Tinubu was honoured and was buried," before quickly correcting himself with "President Buhari was honoured and buried rather."
The gaffe occurred during a session where the Senate was discussing the state burial accorded to former President Buhari, who passed away in London on July 13, 2025. Buhari's remains were flown back to his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, where he was laid to rest on July 15.
President Tinubu had led a federal government delegation to receive Buhari's body at the airport upon its arrival in Daura and was present throughout the state burial ceremonies.
Continuing his remarks after the slip, Akpabio referenced Senator Ningi's observation that "President Bola Tinubu will not be forgotten for what he did during the burial ceremony of Buhari."
The Senate President further added, "In the Senate, we are also determined to ensure that in our books, the records say he should also have this valedictory, despite all said and done."
This verbal misstep has drawn attention across political circles, highlighting the challenges of impromptu public speaking even for seasoned politicians like Akpabio, who has been in prominent political positions for many years.
The Senate session was part of the legislative body's formal acknowledgment of the passing of the former president, who led Nigeria from 2015 to 2023 before handing over to the current administration.
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