The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) has said that the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari brought sadness and grief to the people in the South and Middle Belt geopolitical region of the country, saying that it has also created room for retrospection over Nigerian leadership before, during and after his death.

The leaders of SMBLF, in a condolence message on Monday, said “we received the news of the passing away of General Muhammadu Buhari, former Nigerian military Head of State and immediate past civilian President, with much sadness and deep introspection over Nigeria leadership before, during and after his tenure as Nigerian President”.

The statement by the group was signed by the leaders of Afenifere, His Royal Majesty Oba Oladipo Olaitan;
Middle Belt Forum (MBF), Dr. Bitrus Pogu; Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, and PANDEF, Ambassador Godknows Igali.

SMBLF leaders said that “notwithstanding his sterling military career, Buhari committed himself to democratic principles as he was undaunted by several failed electoral contests until he won the Presidential Election in 2025 after the third attempt, making his return to national relevance through democratic contest historic”.

“Though his eight-year civilian presidency was marked by mixed outcomes, including economic challenges, insecurity, and reform efforts, it remains a defining era in Nigeria’s democratic journey”, SMBLF added.

“SMBLF acknowledges Buhari’s unyielding belief in the democratic process. His name shall find a permanent place in the annals of Nigerian history”, the group stressed.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. May his soul find eternal, peaceful rest with his Maker in paradise”, the group added.