Senate President Godswill Akpabio led a delegation of the National Assembly to Daura, Katsina State, to condole with Governor Dikko Umaru Radda over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
During the visit, Akpabio described Buhari as “a patriot, a man of integrity, and a shining light,” noting his service to Nigeria as both military head of state and civilian president. He recounted that the delegation had attempted to travel the previous day, but their flight was unable to land due to airport closure, forcing a diversion to Abuja after circling for two hours.
“We insisted on returning today to honour a man who gave everything for Nigeria,” Akpabio said.
Reflecting on Buhari’s legacy, Akpabio praised his discipline, humility, and commitment to national unity. He also recalled his personal ties to Katsina, particularly his role in establishing the Faculty of Law at the Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, which he urged be named after Buhari rather than himself.
Governor Radda expressed gratitude to the delegation and spoke fondly of his long-standing relationship with the late president.
“Since his retirement, I visited Baba every two to three weeks. He always reminded me to fear God, lead with justice, and love this country,” Radda said. “Buhari may have appeared reserved from afar, but in person, he was warm and inspiring. His death is a great loss to Katsina, Nigeria, and all of us who saw him as a father figure.”
