The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) have called on Nigerian leaders to use the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari as a moment for deep reflection on leadership, legacy, and national service.

In separate statements on Monday following the announcement of Buhari’s death in London after a prolonged illness, the groups extended condolences to the former president’s family, the Daura Emirate, and Nigerians at large, while urging public officials to recommit themselves to service, justice, and good governance.

CISLAC, through its Executive Director and Head of Transparency International Nigeria, Comrade Auwal Rafsanjani, acknowledged Buhari’s early emphasis on discipline and civic responsibility, particularly during his military rule marked by the War Against Indiscipline (WAI).

Rafsanjani noted that while Buhari’s return as a civilian president in 2015 raised high expectations, public confidence waned over time due to unmet promises and internal political challenges that hindered governance.

He said, “Expectations were high when he assumed office, and many believed he would drive major reforms. However, over time, especially during his second term, public confidence waned, with many Nigerians feeling that anticipated changes were not fully realised.

“He came into office with noble goals and enjoyed public trust in the beginning. However, governance is complex, and political dynamics, particularly the influence of certain figures within his administration, posed significant challenges.

“This offers an important lesson. Leadership must go beyond vision and must include effective execution, transparency, and accountability.”

He called on current and future Nigerian leaders to place national interest above all else and to strive for legacies that command respect both within and outside the country.

CNG in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, described Buhari’s passing as a solemn reminder of the fleeting nature of power and the sacred duty that leadership entails.

He urged leaders to recommit to delivering justice, security, development, and good governance, stressing that Buhari’s life, marked by national service, discipline, and a mixed public perception, should serve as a mirror for those in authority.

“As we mourn, the CNG urges leaders at all levels of government to take this moment to reflect on the ephemerality of life and power.

“We call on those in positions of authority to renew their commitment to delivering justice, security, development, and good governance to the people. Let this moment serve as a solemn reminder that leadership is a sacred trust and that true legacies are not built on titles or tenure, but on tangible impact and service to humanity,” Charanchi said.