The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, has described the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari as a shocking and painful loss to the country.

In a condolence message she personally signed and addressed to the Buhari family, Edu said the former president’s passing has left a deep void, not only in the lives of his family and close associates but also across the nation.

“The passing of His Excellency, former President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, is a great loss to Nigeria,” she wrote. “His shocking and painful demise has plunged the country into mourning and grief.”

Edu praised the former president’s leadership style, describing him as disciplined, firm, and compassionate toward the less privileged. She recalled that despite holding some of the highest offices in the country, Buhari maintained a modest lifestyle.

“President Buhari was a just man; a great leader who showed love and compassion to the poor, vulnerable, and downtrodden in society,” she stated. “He was simplicity personified, attaching no importance or value to material possessions.”

She noted that Buhari’s composed demeanor and sense of duty helped guide the country through challenging moments. “Even in the most trying times, his presence inspired reflection, order, and restraint,” she said.

Edu also reflected on her personal relationship with the late president, highlighting the several opportunities he gave her to serve at a young age. She recalled her roles in the Presidential Taskforce on COVID-19, the National Health Reform Committee, and her appointment as National Woman Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), all of which she attributed to Buhari’s support.

“His support for me and other young Nigerians was immeasurable,” she said. “I was less than 35 when many of these opportunities were given to me.”

She added that Buhari’s death is a personal loss to President Bola Tinubu and the APC, describing him as a source of “wise counsel, guidance, and unwavering support.”

Edu extended condolences to former First Lady Dr. Aisha Buhari, the late president’s children—especially Halima Buhari—the Katsina State Government, the Federal Government, and Nigerians at large.

“I implore us all, as a people of faith, to pray for peace in our hearts and strength to bear the weight of his absence,” she said. “May Almighty Allah, Most Gracious and Most Merciful, forgive his shortcomings, accept his return, and grant him eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus. Amen.”