The immediate past Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, CON, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, describing it as a national tragedy and an immense loss to Nigeria and the African continent.
The former Governor noted that President Buhari, who passed on at the age of 82, was not only a towering figure in Nigerian history but also a father figure in leadership and political mentor to him throughout his time in office.
“The passing of Baba Buhari is a deep personal loss to me. He was a father, a guide and a mentor whose leadership shaped my own philosophy of governance.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the Buhari family, the Government and people of Katsina State, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, remarking that ‘the nation mourns a man whose life was marked by simplicity, honour and a profound sense of duty to the country he served with distinction.’
Bello described President Buhari as an indisputably upright leader whose transformative legacies, both as a military Head of State and later as a democratically elected President, will resonate through generations.
He further noted that President Buhari’s passing comes at a time when Nigeria still needed his wise counsel, measured voice and reassuring presence amid national and global uncertainties. ‘Nigeria has lost a rare gem and a leader who embodied selflessness, discipline and unmatched patriotism’, Bello said.
While praying for the peaceful repose of his soul, the former Governor called on all Nigerians, irrespective of political, ethnic, or religious affiliation, to honour Muhammadu Buhari’s memory by embracing lives of purpose, sacrifice, and integrity.
‘I take solace in the fact that Baba lived a fulfilled life of honour and service. His was a life that taught us that true leadership lies not in loud proclamations but in quiet, consistent actions – not in personal wealth but in selfless sacrifice.
‘May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus,’ Bello stated.
Signed:
Ohiare Michael
Director,
Yahaya Bello Media Office
13 July 2025