Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has paid tribute to his successor, Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London on Sunday. Obasanjo described the late former president as a patriot who served Nigeria with dedication as a soldier, administrator, and statesman.

In a solemn statement delivered in Abeokuta, Obasanjo expressed his deep sorrow over Buhari’s death, noting the loss comes at a time when Nigeria urgently needs the wisdom and experience of its past leaders to navigate the nation’s challenges.

“It is with a heavy heart that I received this afternoon the passing to glory of a colleague, a comrade, co-patriot, General Muhammadu Buhari,” Obasanjo said. “As a soldier, he played his role; as an administrator, he played his role; and as a statesman, he played his role.”

Obasanjo added that Buhari’s absence would be deeply felt across the country.
“His demise comes at a time like this when we need the totality of the experience and statesmanship of all those who have led this country to help get us out of our current situation. He will be sorely missed,” he said.

“May his soul rest in perfect peace,” Obasanjo concluded.