Religious and political leaders across Nigeria have paid tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday at the age of 82 after a lengthy illness in a London hospital.
Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), extended condolences to Buhari’s family, friends and associates in a statement released on Monday in Abuja.
“Though his presidency faced challenges, Buhari served Nigeria with dedication and a profound sense of responsibility,” Okoh said. “His role in our national development remains part of Nigeria’s history. We pray for God’s comfort for his family and loved ones, and that his soul rests in eternal peace.”
In Jigawa State, the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Bala Ibrahim, described Buhari as a gentleman, true statesman and national father whose life was devoted to Nigeria’s progress and unity.
“We have truly lost the psyche and conscience of our nation,” Ibrahim remarked. “May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus.”
Meanwhile, Mr Najib Falalu, Chairman of Buji Local Government Council, echoed similar sentiments, calling Buhari’s death a significant loss for the entire country.
“He will be remembered for his legacy in shaping Nigeria’s democratic path, his dedication to public service, and his efforts toward national development,” Falalu said. “May Allah grant his soul eternal rest and give his family and all Nigerians the strength to bear this loss.”
Buhari led Nigeria first as military Head of State between 1984 and 1985, and later as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023.
