TRIBUTES FROM THE FORMER PRESIDENT GOODLUCK EBELE JONATHAN AND FORMER KADUNA STATE GOVERNOR NASIR AHMAD EL-EUFAI ON THE PASSING OF FORMER PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI.

A sombre mood has enveloped Nigeria following the announcement of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari at the age of 82. Tributes have begun pouring in from across the political spectrum, with former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai expressing profound sorrow and a deep sense of national loss.

In a public message released today, Jonathan described Buhari as a "notable leader, patriot, and elder statesman who served our beloved nation as both a military Head of State and President, to the best of his abilities." He emphasised that Buhari would be remembered as a "courageous leader, a disciplined officer, and a committed public servant who made considerable contributions towards the peace and progress of our dear nation." Jonathan's statement further highlighted Buhari's widespread admiration for his "decency, integrity and exemplary life of service," noting his selfless commitment to duty and his service to the country "with character and a deep sense of patriotism." "In his passing," Jonathan lamented, "Nigeria has lost one of its foremost leaders, and I have lost a respected colleague and elder." He affirmed that Buhari's "legacy will continue to endure in the hearts of all who value sacrifice, integrity, perseverance and devotion to national ethos." On behalf of his family and the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, the former President extended his heartfelt condolences to Buhari's immediate family, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians mourning this significant loss. Jonathan concluded his message with a prayer, "May Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Jannatul Firdaus."

Adding to the wave of condolences, former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, shared a deeply personal tribute, mourning the departure of President Muhammadu Buhari. "He was a leader who stood up for our country in war and peace. He made his contributions to our country’s progress, as a military officer, head of state and elected president."

El-Rufai particularly highlighted Buhari's "remarkable resilience, recovering from his ouster as military head of state in 1985 to emerge as an elected president in 2015." He described Buhari as "rather taciturn but had a sense of humour," adding that "he exuded a charm that connected him to ordinary people who cherished him as a symbol of integrity, a man who could be trusted to stand by the people."

The former governor recounted Buhari's political tenacity, noting that "despite disappointment in three previous presidential elections, he summoned the vision and energy to construct a new coalition that birthed the APC in 2013. He ultimately recorded a first in Nigerian history, defeating an incumbent president in 2015. After two terms as president, he also successfully handed over power to an elected successor. In retirement, he retained his pull, often playing gracious host to a variety of prominent persons."

El-Rufai revealed his close professional and personal relationship with the late president, stating, "I had the privilege of working with him in the CPC. He asked me to lead the CPC Renewal Committee after the 2011 elections. Our Committee recommended the imperative of the CPC merging with the ACN and other parties in time for the 2015 elections." He went on to declare Buhari as his "political mentor," recalling how Buhari "nudged me to contest for the governorship of Kaduna State, encouraged me by attending the flag-off of my campaign in November 2014 and stood by me to victory." El-Rufai expressed profound gratitude for Buhari's support during his governorship and for the "remarkable access he afforded me, even during rare moments of disagreement on policy matters."

El-Rufai concluded his tribute with a prayer for the departed leader: "May Allah grant him Aljannah Firdaus and comfort his family, especially his wife, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, and his children who have been such a formidable support."

The passing of former President Buhari marks a significant moment in Nigeria's history, prompting reflection on his extensive contributions to the nation. Further tributes and details regarding his funeral arrangements are expected in the coming days.

Clementina E. Ukiri, Esq.