Pioneer National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Osun State, Chief Bisi Akande, on Wednesday described the late former President Muhammadu Buhari as “a patriotic leader” whose legacy would stand the test of time.
Akande led a delegation of APC chieftains and political associates to Kaduna to condole with the Buhari family, describing the news of the former president’s death as a “painful personal loss” that deeply shook him.
He recalled his last meeting with Buhari in Daura, Katsina State, where the late leader appeared “healthy and strong,” showing no sign of illness.
“I first heard of his death while I was abroad. Before then, I saw him in Daura, and he was robust, healthy, and strong. We had a pleasant conversation. I even joked that I was going back to my village, and he replied that he was enjoying his own in Daura,” Akande said.
The elder statesman added that Buhari’s passing came as a shock.
“When I returned to Nigeria, I felt the first duty was to come here to commiserate with the family, pray with them, and honour his memory,” he noted.
Paying glowing tributes, Akande hailed Buhari as “a rare Nigerian” whose service, integrity, and discipline would continue to inspire generations.
“He was patriotic, maybe even an angel in human flesh. His spirit will continue to live because of the good works he did for Nigeria,” he said.
The condolence team included Senator Abu Ibrahim, former Sports Minister Sunday Dare, APC stalwart Alhaji Mahmud Abdullahi, Director-General of the National Directorate of Employment, Silas Agara, and Convener of Arewa Think Tank, Mohammed Alhaji Yakubu.
They were received at the late president’s Kaduna residence by former First Lady Aisha Buhari and the family’s eldest son, Yusuf Buhari.
In his response, Yusuf expressed deep gratitude to Akande and his entourage, describing their visit as comforting in the family’s “most difficult moment.” He also thanked President Bola Tinubu for ensuring Buhari received a dignified burial.
“We are grateful to President Tinubu for standing with us and giving our father the honour he deserved. We also appreciate Nigerians for their overwhelming prayers, messages, and visits,” Yusuf said.
He further assured that the family would preserve Buhari’s legacy.
“Our father lived a life of integrity, discipline, and service to Nigeria. We will continue to uphold those values and keep his memory alive,” he pledged.
Advertisement
