From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has described the late President Muhammadu Buhari as not only a statesman but a symbol of integrity, discipline, and devotion to Nigeria.
She said, “His life was marked by unwavering commitment to nation-building, public service, and the welfare of the common man. He served our nation with honour both as a military leader and a democratically elected President.”
She further described him as “an accomplished man who made his family, town, state, and nation very proud.”
She said this during her tribute at the Buhari family residence in Daura, Katsina State, on Saturday, when she led a delegation of prominent women leaders to Daura, Katsina State, to pay a condolence visit to the family of the late Buhari.
The visit comes as the nation observes a period of mourning for the statesman, who died recently in London at the age of 82.
Accompanied by wives of top government officials—including those of the National Assembly leadership, state governors, ministers, and service chiefs—the First Lady visited the Daura residence of Buhari’s widow, Hajia Aisha Buhari. The delegation also included other prominent women from across the country.
During the visit, the women took turns offering prayers for the Buhari family and the peaceful repose of the late president. The First Lady also led the group in a solemn moment at President Buhari’s gravesite, where a short prayer was recited.
Alhaji Mamman Daura, the late president’s uncle and close confidant, expressed gratitude to the First Lady and her delegation. “Thank you for the support and honour accorded the late President Buhari,” he said in response to the First Lady’s remarks.
Visit to the Emir of Daura
The delegation later visited the palace of the Emir of Daura, HRH Alhaji Umar Farouk Umar, where Senator Tinubu extended condolences to the people of the Emirate for what she called “the loss of a worthy son.” In his remarks, the Emir reaffirmed political support for the First Lady’s husband, stating, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains our choice for the 2027 presidential election.”
National Mourning and Reflection
The condolence visit, which drew significant attention across the country, has been described as a demonstration of unity and respect, reflecting the late president’s impact both locally and nationally. Senator Tinubu emphasised the enduring legacy of President Buhari and conveyed the sympathies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and women across Nigeria.
