Senator Ahmed Makarfi, former Governor of Kaduna State (1999–2007), has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in a London clinic at the age of 82.
In a condolence message issued on Sunday, Makarfi said he received the news with shock but accepted it as the will of Allah (SWT).
“Buhari’s services to Nigeria across time will not be forgotten by many generations of Nigerians,” Makarfi stated.
Reflecting on the late president’s decades-long public service, Makarfi highlighted Buhari’s roles as a young army officer who fought for the unity of the country, as Military Governor of the former North-Eastern State and later Borno State, Minister of Petroleum, General Officer Commanding, Head of State, Executive Chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund, and ultimately as a two-term democratically elected President.
“He demonstrated total commitment to the country and humanity,” he noted.
Makarfi emphasised that Buhari lived a life that offers valuable lessons to Nigerians of all backgrounds and that his passing comes at a time when his wise counsel as a respected former leader was still needed.
“We will remember him as a leader who gave his all for the country,” he said.
The former governor offered condolences to Buhari’s family, associates, and all Nigerians, praying for Allah’s forgiveness for the deceased and strength for his loved ones to bear the loss.
“I pray to Allah to forgive his shortcomings, strengthen his family and give all of us the courage to bear this irreparable loss,” Makarfi concluded.
