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President Bola Tinubu has guided countless Nigerians in grieving the loss of his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, and the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona.
He characterized the passing of both figures within a short span as a significant loss for the nation, given their extensive leadership backgrounds.
The president expressed that losing both esteemed individuals has caused him immense sorrow, noting that the death of his predecessor weighed heavily on him, and the news of Awujale's passing intensified that grief. In leading the nation in mourning, the President has instructed that flags be flown at half-mast nationwide for a period of seven days starting Sunday.
Furthermore, he convened an emergency Federal Executive Council meeting on Tuesday to honor the former president.
The Federal Government, as stated by him, will grant the former President full state honors in recognition of his substantial contributions to the development and unity of the country.
Other notable Nigerians who joined the president in expressing their condolences include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto, Saad Abubakar, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, alongside other colleagues and citizens.
Buhari passed away in London, United Kingdom (UK), after a brief illness just before his 83rd birthday, while his friend, Awujale, passed away shortly thereafter at 91 in Ijebu Ode, only two months following celebrations for his birthday, during which many Nigerians praised his esteemed qualities that kept him free from controversy throughout his over forty years on the throne.
Regarding Buhari, he remarked: “In this time of national mourning, I offer my deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Aisha, with whom I have remained in contact, his children, the entire Buhari family, and all who knew and cherished him.
I also extend my condolences to the government and citizens of Katsina State, particularly the people and traditional leaders of Daura Emirate. We honor his service, reflect on his legacy, and pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.” On the passing of the monarch, Tinubu highlighted that Adetona's death has created a significant void in the traditional institutions of Yorubaland and Nigeria at large.
“Oba Adetona was a remarkable ruler who dutifully served his community with dignity, flair, grace, and an unmistakable sense of obligation.”
Atiku, while expressing his sorrow for the former president, noted that Buhari’s life was marked by steadfast patriotism, discipline, and lifelong dedication to the country's sovereignty and unity.
“President Buhari was more than merely a former Head of State; he epitomized Nigeria’s resilience. From the battlefield to the corridors of power, he demonstrated austere conviction and a profound sense of duty, setting him apart as a principled soldier and a leader of immense resolve.
His demise is not solely a loss to his immediate family and the Daura community; it represents a national tragedy.
Nigeria has lost a statesman who carried the weight of leadership during both challenging and successful times, leaving a legacy that will endure for generations.”
Shortly after referring to Buhari as a nationalist, Atiku communicated via his official social media account, stating: “Oba Adetona was not merely a traditional leader; he was a monarch of exceptional courage, dignity, and grace—a beacon of wisdom and strength whose rule was defined by integrity and unwavering devotion to service.
The former monarch served as a foundation of identity for the Ijebu people and a potent symbol of Black excellence globally.
“Nigeria has lost a grand royal figure, a cultural guardian, a voice of moral authority, and a significant force in our national life. His wisdom, honesty, and beliefs influenced discussions well beyond the confines of the palace. He was a king who bravely spoke truth to power while maintaining respect for tradition and his community.”
