Dr. Samaila A.A Rukuba Pays Tribute To Buhari, Hails Him As Beacon Of Integrity

 

A respected public affairs analyst and elder statesman, Dr. Samaila A.A Rukuba, has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a beacon of integrity and a steadfast symbol of national unity.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Rukuba said the late president lived and died upholding values that defined his public and private life, stressing that Buhari’s legacy would endure far beyond his years on earth. 

The former president passed on in London on Friday afternoon, as confirmed by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, and former aide, Bashir Ahmad.

“President Muhammadu Buhari was a man of principle, modest in lifestyle, firm in conviction, and disciplined in character. His passing marks the end of a distinct moral era in Nigeria’s political journey,” Rukuba stated.

Reflecting on Buhari’s military and civilian career, Rukuba said the late president devoted his entire life to the service of Nigeria, both on the battlefield and in public office. 

He noted that Buhari’s commitment to the anti-corruption crusade, though controversial, was a reflection of his personal values.

“He stood for something at a time when many stood for nothing. He was never seduced by the excesses of office. Buhari believed leadership was a responsibility, not a privilege,” he said.

Rukuba also praised Buhari’s religious devotion, describing him as a man who merged spiritual depth with public duty. 

According to him, even in retirement, Buhari remained a source of moral guidance for younger politicians and leaders.

“To those of us who watched his journey from the military days through his presidential tenures, one thing remained consistent — his dedication to Nigeria’s survival and stability. He didn’t seek wealth. He sought purpose,” he added.

Offering condolences to the Buhari family, Rukuba prayed for divine comfort for the late president’s widow, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, his children, and the entire Daura community. 

He also commiserated with the nation at large, saying Nigeria had lost “a rare figure whose type will not be easily found again.”

“As a people, we must not only mourn Buhari. We must also honour him by embracing the values he lived for: discipline, service, and honesty. The truest tribute to a man like him is to uphold what he stood for,” he said.

Dr. Rukuba concluded by praying for the peaceful repose of Buhari’s soul and urged Nigerians to reflect on the transience of life and the importance of legacy. 

“Buhari’s body may be gone, but the moral challenge he posed to Nigeria remains. May Allah grant him Aljannatul Firdaus,” he said.