Former Kaduna State governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, paying tribute to him as a mentor whose life was defined by integrity, resilience and service to Nigeria.
In his statement titled “Tribute to a mentor,” El-Rufai described Buhari as a man who stood for Nigeria both in times of conflict and in peace.
“He contributed to the country’s progress as a military officer, head of state and as an elected president,” El-Rufai said.
He praised Buhari’s remarkable ability to recover from political setbacks, particularly after being ousted as military ruler in 1985, before ultimately winning the presidency in 2015 after three previous attempts.
“He was rather taciturn but had a sense of humour. He had a charm that connected him to ordinary people who saw him as a symbol of integrity,” El-Rufai recalled.
Reflecting on Buhari’s political legacy, El-Rufai noted the significance of building the APC coalition in 2013, which led to an unprecedented victory over an incumbent president in 2015. Buhari, he said, also made history by peacefully handing over power after serving two full terms.
“President Buhari was my political mentor,” El-Rufai continued. “He encouraged me to contest for the governorship of Kaduna State, came to the flag-off of my campaign in November 2014 and supported me to victory.”
El-Rufai expressed appreciation for Buhari’s guidance and the access he enjoyed during his time as governor, even when policy disagreements arose.
“May Allah grant him Aljannah Firdaus and comfort his family, especially his wife, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, and his children,” he concluded.
