President Bola Tinubu paid a heartfelt tribute to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari during a Special Federal Executive Council session held in Buhari’s honor at the State House in Abuja. He described Buhari as “a good man, a decent man, an honourable man,” emphasizing that his legacy of discipline, patriotism, and moral uprightness would endure for generations.
Tinubu acknowledged that while Buhari was not without flaws, his unwavering commitment to national service distinguished him. He stated, “President Buhari was not a perfect man, no leader is, but he was, in every sense of the word, a good man.” The President highlighted that Buhari’s character and moral integrity would not be forgotten, noting his life was dedicated to serving Nigeria and adhering to his faith.
Reflecting on Buhari’s tenure and extensive military and civil service, Tinubu praised the late leader’s simplicity and stoic resistance to the allure of power. He remarked, “He stood, always, ramrod straight; unmoved by the temptation of power, unseduced by applause.” The President described Buhari’s patriotism as being demonstrated more through actions than words.
Tinubu reminisced about their political alliance that led to the historic 2015 elections, marking Nigeria’s first democratic transfer of power from one ruling party to another. He expressed admiration for Buhari’s leadership style, noting that he governed with dignity and restraint.
After leaving office, Buhari returned to his hometown of Daura without seeking to exert influence, a testament to his modesty. “Even in death, he maintained the serenity that defined him in life,” Tinubu said, reflecting on Buhari’s quiet submission to God’s will.
Tinubu thanked the Inter-Ministerial Committee and Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda for organizing a respectful state funeral and expressed it as a “profound honour” to lead the burial procession. He concluded his tribute with a prayer, asking for Allah’s forgiveness for Buhari’s shortcomings and hoping his life would inspire future generations of Nigerians to serve with courage and selflessness. Buhari passed away on July 13 at the age of 82.
