Buhari left a legacy etched in duty, discipline – Lawan

From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja

Former Senate President Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan has paid an emotional tribute to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing his death as the end of an era defined by “discipline, humility, and duty”.

In a heartfelt statement released on Sunday, July 13, following the announcement of Buhari’s passing in London, Lawan described the former president as “more than a leader, a symbol of tenacity and simplicity”. He recalled his close collaboration with Buhari during the 9th National Assembly, a period he says was marked by mutual respect, shared purpose, and “a commitment to national unity above partisanship”.

“I witnessed first-hand the depth of his commitment to the Nigerian people,” Lawan said. “Our collaboration in the National Assembly was built on a shared vision, a Nigeria that works for all, regardless of region or creed.”

Lawan, who represents Yobe North in the Senate, remembered Buhari as a leader with “unshakeable integrity, a rare trait in our political landscape”. He credited the former president’s calm demeanour, strategic foresight, and insistence on accountability as essential drivers of legislative harmony during his term as Senate President.

“He believed in the supremacy of the national interest and always challenged us to elevate the discourse above partisanship,” Lawan wrote. “His counsel was always measured, his convictions clear.”

Although Buhari’s presidency faced intense criticism at times, including over insecurity and economic hardship, Lawan’s tribute painted the portrait of a man who remained committed to the “difficult but essential work” of nation-building. He praised the late president for steering Nigeria through tumultuous periods while remaining focused on long-term goals.

“To the people of Katsina State, his home and the starting point of his public service journey, I say: your son gave his all to Nigeria,” Lawan stated. “He rose from your midst to become the conscience of a nation.”

Lawan also used the opportunity to urge the All Progressives Congress (APC), which Buhari co-founded and led to power in 2015, to recommit to the party’s founding ideals. He described Buhari as a “moral compass and ideological anchor” and called on the current leadership to uphold the values that defined his era.

In a message of solidarity, he extended his condolences to Buhari’s widow, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, and expressed confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Buhari’s successor and long-time political ally, would ensure that the former president’s legacy endures.

“The All Progressives Congress, which he led with such distinction, must now draw upon his example to continue the path of progress,” he said. “Let us, as Nigerians, honour the life of Muhammadu Buhari not only with tributes, but by continuing the work of building a just, inclusive, and secure nation.”