SGF, Akpabio, former Army staff mourn Buhari
The Southern Governors’ Forum (SGF) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing his passing as a great loss to the nation.
In a statement issued on behalf of the Forum’s Chairman, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, the SGF said Buhari’s death was a moment of national reflection on the values he embodied.
“The Southern Governors’ Forum extends its heartfelt condolences to the nation following the unfortunate passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari. The loss of the former president marks a profound moment of reflection for all Nigerians” the statement partly reads.
The governors noted that Buhari, who led the country both as a military ruler and a democratically elected president, was dedicated to public service and the advancement of the country. They commended his efforts in promoting national development, security, unity, and democracy.
“He was a leader who understood the intricacies of Nigeria’s diverse society and sought to foster a sense of belonging among all citizens. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of leaders.” The forum added.
The SGF also urged Nigerians to honour Buhari’s memory by upholding the ideals he stood for.
They prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul and urged the public to honor his lifetime by recognizing the positive impact he had on countless lives.
In a related development Former Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya (Rtd), CFR also extolled the virtue of the late president in a condolence message.
He expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended his condolences to his family, the government and the general public describing late Buhari as a visionary leader “whose legacy will continue to guide generations yet unborn”
The retired lieutenant general also recalled how Buhari provided him with support and guidance in the fight against insecurity during his tenure “Under his leadership, the Nigerian Army became more professional, better equipped, and more effectively trained to tackle contemporary security challenges. I am proud of the accomplishments recorded during my tenure. These achievements are directly attributed to President Buhari’s visionary leadership, guidance and commitment to national security.” He wrote.
He also prayed for the soul of the departed former president describing him as a patriot “Nigeria has lost a patriot. Africa has lost a statesman. Humanity has lost a man of honour. May Almighty Allah grant his soul eternal rest and reward his noble deeds with Aljannatul Firdaus, amen.”
Similarly, Senate President Godswill Akpabio also expressed sadness over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a statesman and a leader known for integrity.
In a statement he personally signed, Akpabio condoled with President Bola Tinubu, the people of Katsina State, and Buhari’s family, especially his wife Aisha and their children.
He said Buhari was a disciplined military officer who later became a strong democratic leader and the first opposition candidate to defeat a sitting president in Nigeria.
“I worked with him as a minister and can say he lived a simple life and always thought about the people,” he said.
He prayed for God to comfort Buhari’s family and for Allah to grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.
Former President Muhammad Buhari died on Sunday in London at the age of 82 after battling a prolonged illness.
The vice president Kashim Shettima and chief of staff Femi Gbajabiamila have been ordered to escort his remains home by President Tinubu where he will be buried in line with islamic rites.
SGF, Akpabio, former Army staff mourn Buhari
