By John Moses
Senator Simon Lalong, representing Plateau South and former Governor of Plateau State, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing it as a monumental loss to the nation.
In a condolence message released on Monday in Jos, Lalong praised Buhari’s lifelong commitment to Nigeria’s unity, peace, and prosperity. Buhari died aged 82 on Sunday at a hospital in London after a prolonged illness.
“This is a huge loss to our nation because the former leader dedicated his entire life to public service, marked by patriotism, integrity, and sacrifice,” Lalong said. “As both military ruler and democratically elected president, Buhari’s confidence and passion for the country were evident.”
Reflecting on his own experience, Lalong noted that he enjoyed a close working relationship with the late president during his tenure as governor of Plateau State.
Retired Brigadier-General John Temlong also paid tribute to Buhari, describing him as a patriotic and committed military officer who played a pivotal role during the Nigerian Civil War.
“He led from the front to preserve the nation’s unity and later contributed significantly as Minister of Petroleum, where he oversaw the establishment of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC),” Temlong recalled.
He added: “While he was not without faults, his campaign against indiscipline was unmistakable, and his legacies will endure beyond our generation.”
Similarly, Mr Yakubu Datti, former Commissioner for Information in Plateau State, highlighted Buhari’s role in strengthening democracy and ensuring fair electoral processes.
“The former president left behind a lasting legacy of defending democratic principles and promoting a level playing field for all,” Datti remarked.
