By Hamza Suleiman

Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as “an iconic statesman whose legacy of discipline, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to national unity will continue to guide generations.”

Buhari, who passed away on Sunday at a London clinic where he was receiving treatment, served as Nigeria’s President from 2015 to 2023, after a distinguished career in the military, including a brief stint as Head of State from 1983 to 1985.

In a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Malam Dauda Iliya, Gov. Zulum said Buhari’s death at this critical moment in Nigeria’s democratic evolution is a monumental loss.

He said “it is with profound sadness that I learned of the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari while receiving treatment in London today (Sunday, July 13, 2025).

“Although death is inevitable, Buhari’s demise at this critical time of Nigeria’s democratic journey is colossal, as the vacuum created will be difficult to fill.”

Zulum praised the late president’s life as one defined by humility, integrity and selfless service to Nigeria.

He recalled that Buhari served as the first military governor of the old Borno State from Feb. 3 to March 15, 1976, during which he laid critical foundations for the state’s development.

“From his days as a young officer in the Nigerian Army to his stewardship as Head of State and later as a democratically-elected president, Buhari remained a detribalised leader of principle and vision,” Zulum added.

He noted that Buhari’s contributions to the development of Borno and the Northeast region were significant, saying the former president was particularly attentive to the challenges of insecurity and humanitarian crises that affected the region.

He recalled the former president’s last visit to Borno in November 2024 when he came to commiserate with victims of the devastating floods, describing the visit as “evidence of Buhari’s enduring empathy and concern for the people.

“His legacy is one of sacrifice, selflessness and steadfast commitment to the unity, security and progress of our dear country.”

Zulum, therefore, extended condolences to Buhari’s family, the people and government of Katsina State and the Daura Emirate.

“We pray that Almighty Allah (SWT), in His infinite mercy, forgives his shortcomings and grants him eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus,” Zulum stated. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu