Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State has expressed deep grief over the passing of former President, Mohammad Buhari, describing it as a colossal loss to the entire nation.
Also, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, extended his deepest condolences to the family.
Mbah, in a condolence message by him on Sunday night, described Buhari as one of the most patriotic and honest Nigerian leaders to have ever led the country.
According to him, “President Buhari made his entrance into Nigeria’s governance space in 1984 and 2015. On both occasions, his pedigrees of truthfulness, integrity, and patriotism stood out. He demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the ideals of nationhood. He was an embodiment of service and dedication to the fatherland. His life was a lesson to upcoming leaders that leadership is about the downtrodden and the vast number of people who needed development.”
The governor added that Buhari’s public service career was glittering and outstanding.
He acknowledged the deceased former leader’s simplicity and forthrightness, saying they were virtues that endeared him to millions across Nigeria, and even beyond.
“Although he leaves behind a void that will be difficult to fill, there is much comfort in the fact that his life was an inspiration, and his vast legacies are engraved in the sands of time.
“On behalf of the government and people of Enugu State, I mourn the passing of this astute General, a committed patriot and a leader whose engaging persona was circumscribed throughout Nigeria and among its people.
“I offer my sincere condolences to his immediate family, the Government and people of Katsina State, the Federal Government and the entire people of Nigeria,” he stated.
Mbah prayed that the Almighty God would grant the soul of the late president eternal repose.
Badaru in his tribute described the loss as profound, not only for the Buhari family but for the entire nation that he served with unwavering dedication and commitment.
He emphasised that during his tenure, President Buhari demonstrated steadfast commitment to the development and progress of Nigeria.
He said “on behalf of the Ministry of Defence and the Nigerian Armed Forces, I convey our heartfelt condolences to the family, government, and people of Nigeria, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, on the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“We remember his dedication to democracy, stability and the unity of our nation, as well as his unwavering commitment to the anti-corruption crusade, which endeared him to many Nigerians.
“May Allah grant him Aljana Firdausi and provide his family and all Nigerians the fortitude to bear this great loss.”
(NAN)
