Suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed sadness over the death of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in a London hospital following a brief illness.

Fubara conveyed his condolences in a statement released on Monday through his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi. In the statement, he extended sympathy to President Bola Tinubu, the Buhari family, and the Nigerian people, describing the former president’s passing as a major loss to the country.

Speaking on behalf of his family and the people of Rivers State, Fubara acknowledged Buhari’s contributions to Nigeria’s development, highlighting his role in national leadership and governance.

He described the late president as “a leader of discipline, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of Nigeria,” and pointed to Buhari’s focus on anti-corruption, national security, and infrastructure development as defining features of his administration.

According to Fubara, Buhari’s public service, both as a military Head of State from 1983 to 1985 and later as a democratically elected president between 2015 and 2023, demonstrated a consistent dedication to the country’s growth.

He added that the former president left a “legacy of service, sacrifice, and patriotism” that would be remembered by future generations.

Fubara concluded his message by praying for the peaceful repose of Buhari’s soul and asking for strength and comfort for his family and loved ones.