Aminu Bello Masari

Former Katsina State Governor, Aminu Bello Masari, has described the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari as a national tragedy and a moment for deep reflection, noting that Buhari served Nigeria with unwavering dedication and fairness.

Speaking exclusively to The Nation in Katsina shortly after the announcement of Buhari’s passing, Masari said, “Buhari was a gentle and just leader who, despite his roots in Katsina, governed with the entire nation in mind.”

“He came from Katsina, but he served the nation,” Masari noted. “From his early days as a military officer, to Head of State, and finally as a democratically elected President, Buhari’s entire career was committed to Nigeria.”

He stressed that Buhari never showed preferential treatment to his home state. “I can say this without hesitation, Buhari never favoured Katsina over any other state. He was fair, firm, and deeply principled. He belonged to the whole country, not just one part of it.”

Masari described the late president as a rare leader marked by humility, justice, and selflessness. “President Buhari represents a rare breed of leaders. Nigeria has lost a true patriot,” he said.

He added that Buhari’s legacy of integrity, discipline, and an austere lifestyle—particularly his fierce stance against corruption- would continue to shape Nigeria’s democratic and institutional memory for generations.

As the nation remains in mourning, preparations for Buhari’s burial are underway, with official confirmation expected from the Katsina State Government and the Emirate Council.