Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed sadness over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died in London.
Obasanjo, in a statement on Sunday, said he received the news of Buhari’s death with a heavy heart.
The former leader, who spoke to newsmen in Abeokuta, said Buhari gave his best to Nigeria and would be sorely missed.
“This is a heavy heart that I received this afternoon, of the passing of a colleague, a comrade, a cool patriot, General Muhammadu Buhari, who as a soldier, played his role. As an administrator, he played his role as an administrator; as a statesman, he played his role as a statesman.
“At a time like this, we need the totality of the experience and what I may call statesmanship of all those who have had opportunities to run the affairs of this country to get us out of the situation we are in, he will be surely missed, may his soul rest in perfect peace,” he said.
Similarly, former President Goodluck Jonathan has reacted to Buhari’s death.
Jonathan, in his statement, described Buhari as a notable leader, patriot, and elder statesman who served Nigeria selflessly.
The statement reads, “It is with a heavy heart and profound sense of national loss that I received the news of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari who died at the age of 82.
“President Buhari was a notable leader, patriot, and elder statesman who served our beloved nation as both a military Head of State and President, to the best of his abilities.
“He will be remembered as a courageous leader, a disciplined officer, and a committed public servant who made considerable contributions towards the peace and progress of our dear nation.
“The late President was deeply admired across the strata of society for his decency, integrity and exemplary life of service. As a leader, he was selfless in his commitment to his duty and served the country with character and a deep sense of patriotism.
“In his passing, Nigeria has lost one of its foremost leaders, and I have lost a respected colleague and elder. His legacy will continue to endure in the hearts of all who value sacrifice, integrity, perseverance and devotion to national ethos.
“On behalf of my family and the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the good people of Katsina State and all Nigerians who mourn this great loss.
“May Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Jannatul Firdaus.”
Naijaonpoint recalls that Buhari died on Sunday at a London hospital at the age of 82.