Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has paid tribute to late President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, in a London hospital at the age of 82.
In an emotionally charged statement delivered from his residence in Abeokuta, Obasanjo described Buhari as a “co-patriot, colleague and a patriot”, who served Nigeria in multiple capacities, with loyalty and discipline.
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“It is with a heavy heart that I received this afternoon the passing to glory of a colleague, a comrade, co-patriot, General Muhammadu Buhari…”
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Obasanjo, Nigeria’s military Head of State from 1976 to 1979 and democratic president from 1999 to 2007, recalled Buhari’s lifelong service to the country as a soldier, Head of State (1983–1985), and President (2015–2023).
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“As a soldier, he played his role; as an administrator, he played his role; and as a statesman, he played his role.”
Their relationship, often defined by both collaboration and criticism, was united in shared patriotism and military background. Both leaders were instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s political trajectory across different decades.
Buhari’s death a loss at a Critical Time – Obasanjo
Obasanjo stressed that Buhari’s passing came at a time when Nigeria desperately needs experienced national voices to help guide the country through its current challenges.
He said, “His demise comes at a time like this that we need the totality of the experience and what I may call statesmanship of all of those who have had opportunity to run the affairs of this country in the past to get us out of the situation we are in.”
His remarks touched on Nigeria’s present-day economic instability, rising insecurity, and political tension, suggesting that the wisdom of seasoned leaders is still highly valuable.
Buhari will be sorely missed – Obasanjo
Obasanjo concluded his tribute by praying for Buhari’s soul to rest in perfect peace and offered condolences to his family, close associates, and the nation at large.
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“He will be sorely missed, and may his soul rest in perfect peace.”
