Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, and his Deputy, Benjamin Kalu, have described the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari as a monumental loss to Nigeria, praising him as one of the most patriotic leaders the nation has ever known.

In separate condolence messages following Buhari’s reported passing in London after a brief illness, the Speaker and his deputy expressed deep shock and sorrow over the demise of the former president at the age of 82.

Speaker Abbas, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, said Buhari dedicated the greater part of his life to the service of Nigeria.

He lauded Buhari as a principled officer and statesman renowned for his incorruptibility, simplicity, and disinterest in material wealth — qualities that earned him nationwide respect and trust.

Abbas noted that Buhari was one of only two Nigerians — alongside Olusegun Obasanjo — to have served both as military Head of State and democratically elected President, calling it a rare privilege and a testament to his national stature.

He also recalled the late president’s strong political base, especially in Northern Nigeria, attributing his cult-like following to his disciplined and upright nature.

The Speaker further highlighted Buhari’s strategic alliance with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and others in forming the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move that ended the 16-year rule of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015.

He concluded by noting the poignancy of Buhari’s passing, just as he had withdrawn from public life for a well-earned rest after serving two terms as president — now transitioning to eternal rest.

“The news of the demise of former President Muhammadu Buhari was shocking to me. But we cannot question our Creator. All mortals shall taste death. May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus.

“He was a fine officer of the Nigerian Army and politician of repute, who got to the peak of his military and political careers. He was disciplined, patriotic, modest, and upright. He served the nation most of his life in different capacities. Only a few Nigerians have the privilege to have so served their country.

“Buhari carved a niche for himself as an incorruptible leader, a man of integrity, and an unflinching commitment to nation-building. His life was also defined by uncommon simplicity,” the Speaker said.

Speaker Abbas commiserated the Buhari family, Emir of Daura, the people, and the government of his home state, Katsina, and extended the condolences to Kaduna State, where he lived most of his life.

On his part, the Deputy Speaker expressed sadness over the passing of the former President Muhammadu Buhari, described the loss as a significant blow not only to Nigeria but also to the international community, given President Buhari’s contributions to global progress.

Kalu recalled former President Buhari’s legacies, highlighting his integrity, loathing for indiscipline, and other notable achievements, including the “rice revolution.” 

The Deputy Speaker also emphasized the importance of leadership, service, and dedication to citizens’ welfare, referencing President Buhari’s example.

Kalu extended his heartfelt condolences to President Buhari’s immediate family, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), political allies, friends, and the entire nation. 

He said: “It is with profound sadness that I received the news of the passing of His Excellency, Former President Mohammadu Buhari, GCFR.

“This loss is felt not only by the nation but by the entire international community, given the former President’s significant contributions to our collective progress.

“President Buhari’s legacies both as a former Head of State and President at different times will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations. Remarkable was the virtue of integrity which defined his private life and characterized his public conduct. From what we knew about him, he loathed indiscipline as a former Head of Military Government. 

“Leading the country as a democratically elected President, President Buhari will be remembered for his rice revolution among other achievements. 

“As we reflect on his life and achievements, I am reminded of the importance of leadership, service, and dedication to the welfare of our citizens.

“May we draw strength from his example as we continue to work towards building a better future for all Nigerians.

Former Secretary General of the pan Northern socio-politic organisation,Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Anthony Sani describe the death of the former President as a huge loss to not only his loved ones, but to the whole country.

While praying for God give his family what it takes to endure what cannot be changed, Sani sqid “the former president now enjoys the peace associated with death and the pains of what he has left behind by way of challenges confronting the nation.

“Former President Buhari may be no more because no one can fill the void he has left behind.But in a way he is very much around,since he needs no tombstone to remind us of his legacy”.