From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
In an emotional tribute following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, described Buhari as not only a friend but also a father figure to him.
In a tribute in honour of the former President, Gbajabiamila reflected on the profound loss felt personally and nationally.
“From the moment I received the news… I was left with a profound sense of bereavement and a consciousness of a loss that is too deep for words,” he said. He praised Buhari’s dignity, integrity, and steadfastness, emphasising the former president’s unique role in Nigeria’s history over six decades of service.
Gbajabiamila highlighted Buhari’s pivotal support during his tenure as Speaker of the House of Representatives, noting that the former president’s backing helped shield the National Assembly from political sabotage. “When these machinations became a distraction and I went to him, he assured me that only the national interests mattered to him… He remained true to his word and thoroughly resisted those attempts to sabotage the House, enabling a period of stability,” Gbajabiamila recalled.
Acknowledging that Buhari was not infallible, Gbajabiamila nevertheless asserted, “Despite his mistakes, one thing was always certain: he was an honourable and dignified man, a fine soldier and statesman who loved his country passionately.”
Extending condolences to Buhari’s family, Gbajabiamila urged Nigerians to take inspiration from the former president’s tenacity, dignity, and grace. “May Allah grant him Aljannah Firdaus and comfort his family now and forever,” he concluded, urging all to continue working toward a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria in Buhari’s memory.
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