Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State has described the late former President Muhammadu Buhari as the embodiment of the common man’s aspirations, whose leadership was defined by people-oriented programmes and a genuine love for the masses.
In a statement signed by his chief press secretary, Muhammad Kaula, Governor Radda lamented the loss of what he called Katrina’s most illustrious son, following the former president’s death on Sunday at about 4:30 p.m. in London after a prolonged illness.
“Today, Nigeria has lost a patriot, Katsina has lost its most illustrious son, and I have lost a father figure whose footsteps I have endeavoured to follow,” Radda said.
He recalled Buhari’s distinguished service to Nigeria, first as military head of state from January 1984 to August 1985, and later as a democratically elected President between 2015 and 2023, describing him as a symbol of Katsina’s values of integrity, service, and unwavering commitment to the people.
“President Buhari was not just a leader; he was the embodiment of the common man’s aspirations. His people-oriented programmes and genuine love for the masses defined his leadership philosophy,” Radda stated.
According to the governor, Buhari’s legacy transcends political affiliations and consistently champions the cause of ordinary Nigerians throughout his career.
“From his early days as a military leader to his transformative presidency, President Buhari never forgot his roots. He remained connected to the soil of Katsina and the hearts of its people. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void in our collective consciousness,” he added.
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Radda urged Nigerians to honour the memory of Buhari by upholding his legacy of putting the people first, which, he said, will inspire future generations of leaders.
Meanwhile, Daura, Buhari’s hometown, has been thrown into mourning since the announcement of his death.
The Emir of Daura, Alhaji Farouk Umar Farouk, through his spokesman, Ibrahim Usman Yaro (Sarkin Labaran Masarautar Daura), told The Nation that this marks the second time Katsina is losing one of its sons who served as Nigeria’s President.
Yaro also confirmed that arrangements are underway for the burial of the late President, tentatively scheduled for Monday at 4 p.m., subject to final confirmation from the Katsina State Government.