Hours before the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday in Daura, Katsina State, beneficiaries of his numerous charitable gestures poured out heartfelt tributes.

They described him as a man who never turned his back on the needy.

Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) a community elder, Aminu Daura, recalled how Buhari distributed foodstuffs during Ramadan to families, friends, widows, and orphans.

“He never made noise about it, but many homes had food on their tables during the fasting period because of him,” Daura said.

A physically-challenged Abdullahi Sani, who received a tricycle from the Buhari Foundation in 2021, broke down in tears while speaking to NAN.

“I can move around and feed my family today because of Baba Buhari. I pray to Allah to reward him for giving hope to people like me,” he prayed.

Another resident, Hajiya Fatima Yahaya, said Buhari often distributed Sallah rams and foodstuffs to indigent families during Muslim celebrations.

“Even after he left office, his aides ensured that the usual support still reached us every year. He always remembered his people,” she added.

Many other residents in Daura also recalled how the former President quietly funded school fees and medical bills for struggling families.

Ali Saidu said: “Some of us benefited from his silent interventions. He was a true father and a great figure in society.”

NAN reports Imams held special Qur’anic recitations across mosques in Daura on Monday night, praying for the forgiveness of his sins and eternal peace in the hereafter.

A Chief Imam in Daura, Sheikh Musa Kofar Barau, said Buhari’s legacy of service and humility would live on in the hearts of the people.