“I came into this world with nothing, and I will leave with nothing — so why should I steal?” — Muhammadu Buhari
These immortal words, once spoken by President Muhammadu Buhari, perfectly encapsulate the character of a man who stood out in an age where power is often abused and integrity is scarce. Today, Nigeria mourns not just the passing of a former president, but the departure of a rare breed of leader whose personal and public life reflected one consistent truth: service above self.
It is with a heart full of sorrow that I extend my deepest condolences to the family of the late President, to the people of Daura, Katsina State, and to Nigerians across the world who feel the weight of this loss.
President Buhari was a symbol of resilience. From his days as a disciplined soldier to his rise as Head of State in 1983, and later as a democratically elected President in 2015, he never swerved from his principles. In a region, continent, and world where politics is often reduced to personal gain, he reminded us that leadership is a sacred trust — and he bore that trust with quiet pride and profound accountability.
He lived modestly, even while in power. No flamboyance. No extravagance. His public image matched his private life. He gave voice to the voiceless and hope to those who believed that character still matters in governance. Buhari’s war on corruption, whether praised or criticized, was rooted in his deep belief that Nigeria deserves clean hands and honest hearts.
To those who knew him personally, he was humble, disciplined, deeply spiritual, and profoundly connected to his roots. As a Muslim, he upheld the tenets of honesty, accountability, and fear of God. He knew the weight of the Akhirah (hereafter) and lived as though every day was a step toward it.
As President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu led the final respects in Daura, embracing Buhari’s son and standing in silent salute, it wasn’t just a gesture of protocol — it was history witnessing history. It was leadership honouring legacy. Nigeria, for a moment, stood united in gratitude and grief.
Let this not be just an obituary, but a call to conscience. Let his life remind us that public office is not for profit, but for purpose. Let us raise our children to know that greatness is not measured by wealth, but by what we stand for when no one is watching.
May Allah, in His boundless mercy, forgive the shortcomings of our late father, leader, and mentor. May He accept his service as sadaqah jariyah (ongoing charity), widen his grave, fill it with light, and grant him the highest station in Jannatul Firdaus.
Rest well, Baba Buhari.
You came with nothing.
You left with honor.
You will be remembered with everything.
Ameen.
– Ahmed Abdul Mumin, Aide-de-Camp to Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State.
