I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, a man who, in every sense, lived a life of purpose, simplicity, and unwavering patriotism. ‎ ‎Former President Buhari was not just a great leader but a statesman whose quiet strength and personal discipline stood him out.

He embodied the kind of honesty and modesty that inspired both admiration and reflection. Even at the height of power, he remained grounded, never allowing the trappings of office to change who he was at his core, a man of integrity. ‎ ‎In 2020, during one of the most challenging moments of my political journey, President Buhari demonstrated what it truly means to be a democrat. Though, I was not a member of his political party, the All Progressive Congress (APC), he stood on the side of fairness and justice by insisting that the federal government would not interfere with the electoral process in Edo State. That singular act of statesmanship allowed the will of Edo people to prevail and helped protect the integrity of our democracy. I will never forget. He was indeed a good man. ‎ ‎Nigeria has lost one of its most disciplined and principled leaders. While many will remember him for his fight against corruption and his austere lifestyle, I will remember him as a man who, when it truly mattered, chose country over party, principle over politics. ‎ I commiserate with his family, the Government and people of Katsina State, and indeed all Nigerians. I pray that God will grant all the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

‎His Excellency, ‎Godwin Obaseki ‎Governor, Edo State (2016-2024)