Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, on Wednesday led a high-powered National Assembly delegation to Daura, Katsina State, on a condolence visit to Governor Dikko Radda following the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Naijaonpoint reports that Akpabio, who served as Minister of Niger Delta under the late president, described Buhari as “a patriot, a man of integrity, and a shining light who served Nigeria both as a military leader and as a democratically elected president.”
Recounting their journey to Daura, Akpabio revealed that the delegation had initially attempted to travel on Tuesday, but their flight could not land due to the closure of Katsina airport, forcing the aircraft to circle for over two hours before diverting to Abuja.
“We insisted we must return today to honour a man who gave everything for Nigeria,” he said, emphasising the Senate’s commitment to celebrating Buhari’s legacy.
Akpabio highlighted Buhari’s leadership style, describing it as marked by humility, discipline, and deep patriotism. He recalled his personal interactions with the late leader and praised the former president for his love for Nigeria.
He also referenced his role in establishing the Faculty of Law at the Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, Katsina, during his ministerial tenure, insisting the faculty be named after Buhari instead of himself.
“That’s how much we respected him,” he noted, drawing applause from those present.
The Senate President commended Governor Radda for his leadership and governance, noting the historical bond between Katsina and Akwa Ibom states, both of which were created on the same day in 1987.
“Development doesn’t come from money alone, it comes from love for the people,” Akpabio stated.
In his response, Governor Radda expressed deep gratitude to the delegation and reflected on his close personal relationship with the late Buhari.
Radda said, “Since his retirement, I visited Baba every two to three weeks. He always reminded me to fear God, lead with justice, and love this country.”
Radda described Buhari as reserved from afar but warm, fatherly, and inspirational to those who knew him closely.
“His passing is a great loss to Katsina, to Nigeria, and to all of us who looked up to him as a father,” the governor said.
The Senate delegation included Chief Whip, Senator Tahir Munguno, Senator Ali Ndume, Senator Saliu Mustapha, Senator Benson Agadaga, Senator Munir, Senator Sani Zangon Daura Jr., and Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong.