Tributes Pour In as Nigeria Bids Farewell to a Statesman

Nigeria is in national mourning today as the country honors the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday in London at the age of 82. In recognition of his service and leadership, the Federal Government has declared a public holiday, with flags flown at half-mast across the nation.

Buhari’s burial is scheduled for today in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, in accordance with Islamic rites. A special military honor guard and dignitaries from across the political spectrum are expected to attend the solemn ceremony.

A Life of Discipline and Conviction

The late Muhammadu Buhari served as Nigeria’s military head of state from 1983 to 1985, and later as democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023. Known for his firm stance on anti-corruption, security reforms, and fiscal discipline, Buhari left a legacy marked by both admiration and critique.

In a tribute from New York, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed described Buhari as a leader of “discipline, conviction, and patriotism,” whose influence extended far beyond Nigeria’s borders.

“President Buhari was a figure of moral clarity in a turbulent region. His legacy of resilience and service will be remembered by generations to come,” she said.

Global and Domestic Reactions

The U.S. Embassy in Abuja and Consulate in Lagos are both closed today in honor of the former president, describing him in a statement as “a partner in regional peace and stability.”

Leaders from ECOWAS, the African Union, and Commonwealth nations have also extended condolences, praising Buhari’s commitment to democratic norms, especially his decision to not seek a third term and his eventual peaceful transfer of power.

Domestically, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a national day of mourning and ordered a state funeral, calling Buhari “a patriot whose name will remain etched in the history of our republic.”

Divided Yet Respectful Legacy

Buhari’s presidency was a defining era for Nigeria. While he was celebrated for bold reforms like the Treasury Single Account (TSA) and agricultural self-sufficiency campaigns, his administration also faced criticism over:

• Economic stagnation during recession years

• Insecurity in Northern regions

• Alleged clampdowns on civil liberties and protests

Nevertheless, even his political opponents today acknowledged his personal integrity, military discipline, and deep love for the country.

“We disagreed often, but Buhari’s character was never in question. He stood for something,” said Atiku Abubakar, a former vice president and longtime political rival.

A Final Journey to Daura

Thousands of mourners are gathering in Daura, Buhari’s birthplace, to pay their final respects. His body arrived under tight security from London early this morning, accompanied by family members and officials.

Local residents lined the streets, some in tears, waving small Nigerian flags and wearing traditional attire as they bid farewell to a man who shaped the course of modern Nigeria.

Conclusion: A Chapter Closes, a Legacy Lives On

As Nigeria pauses to honor Muhammadu Buhari, the country reflects on a life defined by public service, national struggle, and enduring principle. Whether revered or challenged, Buhari’s impact on Nigeria’s democratic evolution, economic debate, and moral discourse is undeniable.

His passing marks the end of an era, but his story will remain part of Nigeria’s unfolding journey toward unity, justice, and nationhood.

Published on Xamblog.com – Honoring Nigeria’s past, shaping its future.

Last Updated on July 15, 2025 by kingstar