ABUJA — Senate President Godswill Akpabio has expressed profound sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as “a statesman and leader of great integrity” whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Buhari passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at a clinic in London following a prolonged illness. He was 82.
In a personally signed statement, Akpabio extended condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the government and people of Katsina State, and the Buhari family, noting that the nation has lost a leader whose wisdom and patriotism were invaluable.
“It is with profound sadness that I received the news of the passing of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I am deeply pained that he died when his wise counsel is needed most in this country,” Akpabio stated.
He hailed Buhari’s legacy as both a military officer and a democratic leader, recalling how he made history by becoming the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent president in Nigeria.
“Through hard work, patience, uncommon resilience, and discipline, Gen. Buhari became the first opposition candidate to defeat a sitting president in the history of Nigeria.”
Akpabio praised Buhari’s simplicity, integrity, and anti-corruption stance, calling him the true ‘Mai Gaskiya’ — a Hausa title meaning “man of truth.”
“Buhari commanded an unprecedented cult followership in the political history of Nigeria due to his characteristic stance against corruption, unrelenting pursuit of genuine democratic ideals, and his staunch support for the unity and stability of the nation.”
Reflecting on his time serving under Buhari’s administration, Akpabio noted the late president’s austere lifestyle and deep concern for the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
“He lived a Spartan life, thinking about the welfare of the people, especially the less privileged. He was a leader worth emulating.”
The Senate President concluded by praying for divine comfort for Buhari’s family and for Allah to grant him eternal rest.
“May Allah grant him Aljannatul Firdaus in his eternal kingdom,” he prayed.
