Northern Elders Forum (NEF), yesterday, expressed profound sorrow and a deep sense of national loss following the passing of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, who was President between 2015 and 2023.
In a statement, NEF spokesperson, Prof Abubakar Jika Jiddere, described the late Buhari as a “towering figure in Nigeria’s political and historical landscape,” whose life epitomised dedication, humility, and incorruptible service to the nation.
He said: “The entire nation mourns the departure of a towering figure in Nigeria’s political and historical landscape. Buhari was a statesman of rare character, a leader whose life was marked by unwavering dedication, humility, and incorruptible service to Nigeria.”
Jiddere added that Buhari was not only a soldier and statesman, but a symbol of integrity and principled leadership, who was resolute in his belief in a unified, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria.
“His tenure in office and his public life embodied his values of discipline, accountability, and national pride. As a devout nationalist and Pan-Africanist, he championed Nigeria’s sovereignty, defended its territorial integrity, and advanced the cause of democratic governance across Africa.”
The Forum acknowledged the collective grief felt by the nation and extended heartfelt condolences to the Buhari family, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Government and People of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
SIMILARLY, the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has called on Nigerian leaders to use the passing of Buhari as a moment for deep reflection on leadership, legacy, and national service.
CNG, in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, 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 the delivery of justice, security, development, and good governance, stressing that Buhari’s life marked by national service, discipline, and 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,” the statement read.
