Buhari’s death, a profound national loss –Sen. Lado

Sen. Basheer Lado, former Special Adviser on Senate Matters to late President Muhammadu Buhari, has described his death as a major loss to the nation and a personal one for him.

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In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, Lado said Buhari embodied the highest ideals of patriotism, integrity, and commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress.

He said Buhari’s personal virtues of humility, discipline, and sense of duty, inspired those privileged to know him.

“President Buhari was far more than a leader; he was a father figure, mentor, and trusted family friend whose guidance and belief in my potential left a lasting impact on my life and career,” he said.

Lado recalled receiving a personal letter of congratulations from Buhari when he joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), in spite the President’s inability to attend the welcome ceremony.

He said the gesture reflected the depth of their relationship, marked by mutual respect and genuine affection.

The senator also recounted how Buhari entrusted him with two national assignments.

He was first appointed as Federal Commissioner at the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, and later as Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons.

“These were not mere appointments; they were expressions of his confidence in my commitment to national service,” he added.

Lado said a turning point came when he shared plans with Buhari to construct housing units for displaced persons.

The President immediately approved the initiative and gave him his blessings.

“That moment of encouragement and heartfelt blessing bore fruit, with resettlement cities for IDPs now being built across the country,” he said.

He noted that the former President’s support for the vulnerable left an enduring legacy of hope and stability for thousands of displaced Nigerians.

Lado also spoke of Buhari’s close ties with his family, noting that he was a friend of his late uncle, former Head of State Gen. Sani Abacha, and maintained a warm relationship with his family over the years.

He recalled that Buhari personally called to offer condolences after his mother’s death, a gesture that brought great comfort.

According to him, one of their last planned engagements was Buhari’s intended appearance as Guest of Honour at a Qur’anic recitation competition in honour of Hajiya Abibatu Mogaji, mother of President Bola Tinubu.

Though unable to attend due to medical commitments in London, Buhari sent a heartfelt letter and a representative in his place.

“Even in personal health challenges, he honoured his word. That was the kind of man he was, loyal, faithful, and respectful of duty and friendship,” he said.

Lado described Buhari’s life as one of sacrifice, simplicity, and service, from his days as a gallant military officer to his tenure as both Head of State and civilian President.

He extended his condolences to Buhari’s family, associates, and the nation, and prayed to God to forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus.

(NAN)