Radda, Other Govs Pay Tributes To ‘Patriot’ Buhari
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, on Sunday led a flurry of tributes to former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Buhari died in a London clinic on Sunday after an undisclosed illness, according to a statement by his former special adviser, Garba Shehu.
The ex-President’s death was confirmed by President Bola Tinubu, who directed national flags to be flown at half-mast across the country in honour of the late leader.
In mourning the former leader, Radda who leads Buhari’s home state, described him as the “embodiment of the common man’s aspirations.”
“Today, Nigeria has lost a patriot, Katsina has lost its most illustrious son, and I have lost a father figure whose footsteps I have endeavoured to follow,” Governor Radda said.
He said the immediate past President represented the very best of Katsina’s values of integrity, service, and unwavering commitment to the masses.
According to the governor, Buhari was not just a leader but one whose legacy transcended political affiliations. Radda hailed him as a “leader who consistently championed the cause of ordinary Nigerians throughout his distinguished career.”
“From his early days as a military leader to his transformative presidency, President Buhari never forgot his roots. He remained connected to the soil of Katsina and the hearts of its people. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void in our collective consciousness.
“As we mourn this irreparable loss, we must also celebrate a life well-lived in service to humanity. President Buhari’s legacy of putting people first will continue to inspire generations of leaders,” the governor said.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians who have been touched by President Buhari’s remarkable life of service.
Progressive Govs Mourn
Members of the Progressive Governors Forum, comprising governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have expressed deep sorrow over Buhari’s death, condoling with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian people, and the late President’s family.
In a condolence message signed by the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, the governors said they received the news of former President Buhari’s passing with profound shock and sadness.
Governor Uzodimma stated that the Forum extends its heartfelt condolences to all Nigerians and the family of the late former President, describing his death as a monumental loss not just to his immediate family but to the nation at large.
“With the passing of President Buhari, Nigeria bids farewell to one of its most emblematic figures of honest and dedicated leadership; an era shaped by integrity, patriotism, and uncommon sacrifice,” Uzodimma wrote.
He described the late President as an unparalleled patriot who, after a distinguished career in the military, returned through democratic means to continue serving the country with honour and commitment.
Governor Uzodimma recalled Buhari’s notable track record in office, especially his determined stance against corruption and indiscipline, principles he upheld both as a military Head of State and as a democratically elected President.
He remarked that Buhari’s legacy as a moral compass for transparent and accountable governance will continue to inspire generations of leaders across Nigeria and Africa.
Okpebholo
On his part, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, described the late former President as a true patriot, a disciplined leader, and a man of unwavering integrity who dedicated his life to the service of Nigeria.
“It is with a heavy heart that we received the news of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari,” Okpebholo said in his tribute.
“His Excellency was a man of immense character, whose commitment to combating corruption and ensuring national security left an indelible mark on our nation’s history. He served Nigeria with uncommon zeal and selflessness, and his legacy of probity and patriotism will forever be remembered.”
Okpebholo highlighted former President Buhari’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s development, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, agriculture, and the fight against insurgency.
“Even after leaving office, President Buhari remained a respected elder statesman, offering invaluable counsel and guidance whenever called upon. His deep love for Nigeria was evident in every decision he made and every action he took.”
Gov. Alia
To Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State, Buhari left behind a legacy that is deeply rooted in integrity.
He eulogised the former President as one “who was resolute and committed to national development above earthly possessions.”
Alia said Buhari served Nigeria with unwavering courage and conviction, consistently prioritising the nation’s interests and the well-being of its people.
Noting that the country will miss Buhari, the governor prayed that God would console his immediate family and the entire nation over the loss, and to also grant the former President eternal rest.
Gov. Sule
Governor Abdullahi Sule mourned Buhari’s passing, saying he received his news with “deep sorrow and profound sense of loss.”
In a message he signed, the governor said the late President was not just a leader, he was a symbol of honesty, discipline, and unwavering commitment to the Nigerian project.
“Throughout his life, he stood as a beacon of integrity and patriotism; never wavering in his resolve to serve the country with selflessness, honesty and courage.
“His leadership, marked by simplicity and a deep sense of duty, which endeared him to millions both at home and abroad,” Sule stated.
Gov. Bago
Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, said the former president was an elder statesman who has etched his name in the annals of Nigeria’s history.
In a message through his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the governor said Buhari was a disciplined personality who lived a life of service to humanity and dedication to nation-building.
Bago described the former President as an icon of integrity and patriotism.
Gov. Yusuf
Similarly, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State commiserated with President Bola Tinubu, the Governor of Katsina State, and the family of the late president.
Describing the late General Buhari as “a charismatic leader who served Nigeria as both military and democratic leader,” Governor Yusuf said the government and people of Kano were deeply shocked by the news.
“The government and people of Kano express deep shock over the passing of the immediate past President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the governor said.
Gov. Bala Mohammed
In mourning Buhari, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, said Buhari’s death has plunged the nation into mourning.
Mohammed, in his tribute, described him as “a patriotic elder statesman, firm in his convictions, calm in demeanour, yet unwavering in his commitment to national unity and good governance.”
Mohammed acknowledged Buhari’s efforts in stabilising Nigeria and promoting democratic values, especially during a time when the nation faced multiple challenges on various fronts.
He also recalled with reverence his personal and professional interactions with the late President Buhari.
Gov Zulum
According to Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, the death of Buhari at this critical time of Nigeria’s democratic journey is colossal, as the vacuum created is going to be difficult to fill.
“It is with profound sadness that I learned of the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari while receiving treatment at a London Clinic today.
“On behalf of myself, the government and the good people of Borno State, I wish to send our heartfelt condolences to the family of former President Muhammadu Buhari, and our deep sympathies are with the people and government of Nigeria, Katsina State and Daura Emirate in particular,” he said.
