BY LAW IBITOYE
Senator Ayo Arise has joined Nigerians in mourning the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, described his passing as a monumental loss to the nation and the African continent at large.
Arise, who represented Ekiti North Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate from 2007 to 2011, expressed sorrow over the loss, extend condolences to the former family , President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the entire Nigerians.
“The news of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s death came as a rude shock to me and many Nigerians. He was a patriot in every sense of the word — a man whose life was defined by selfless service, national discipline, and unwavering resolve to leave Nigeria better than he met it,” Arise said in a statement on Monday.
He acknowledged Buhari’s significant role in shaping Nigeria’s democratic journey, describing him as a statesman whose contributions spanned both military and civilian rule.
“From the battlefield to the presidency, Muhammadu Buhari carried the Nigerian spirit with dignity and honour. Whether as a military Head of State or as a democratically elected President, his governance style was marked by simplicity, humility, and a deep sense of national duty,” Arise added.
While recognizing the weight of leadership Buhari bore, Arise noted that his dedication to curbing corruption and restoring moral order in public service was a major hallmark of his legacy.
“President Buhari may not have pleased everyone, but history will be kind to him. He led with firm principles and unwavering integrity. His war against corruption, though not without challenges, redefined the conversation about transparency and accountability in Nigeria.”
Senator Arise also extended special condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting their long-standing political alliance and the deep personal bond they shared. “This loss must weigh heavily on President Tinubu, who stood with President Buhari during critical moments of our political history. As a friend, ally, and successor, I urge President Tinubu to take solace in the enduring legacy of his late compatriot. Their shared vision for a stronger Nigeria must remain alive,” he stated.
Senator Arise called on Nigerians to reflect on Buhari’s legacy and to continue striving for a country that upholds justice, peace, and equity.
“We must not allow this moment of grief to pass without introspection. President Buhari believed in a Nigeria that works for all. Let us honour him by fostering unity, rejecting corruption, and putting the nation above personal interest.”
The Oye born politician concluded by praying for the repose of Buhari’s soul and strength for his family to bear the irreparable loss.
“May Almighty God comfort the Buhari family, give them peace that surpasses understanding, and grant the soul of our former President eternal rest. Nigeria has lost a rare gem.”
The passing of Muhammadu Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s Head of State from 1983 to 1985 and later as a two-term elected President from 2015 to 2023, marks the end of a significant era in Nigeria’s political history. Condolences continue to pour in from around the world, affirming his global stature as a respected African leader.