The House of Representatives on Wednesday paid tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died at 82 after a long illness.
Leading the tribute, Speaker, Abbas Tajudeen, described Buhari as a statesman who left an enduring impact on Nigeria’s democratic and legislative development.
He praised Buhari’s lifelong service, noting his dedication and sacrifices for the growth and unity of Nigeria.
Tajudeen commended Buhari’s strong belief in separation of powers, especially his insistence that ministers and agency heads appear before parliamentary committees.
He said Buhari’s willingness to sign laws limiting executive powers and protecting citizens’ rights reflected rare humility and respect for governance.
Laws like the Not Too Young to Run Act (2018), the Petroleum Industry Act (2021), and the Police Act (2020) were highlighted as Buhari’s legacy.
Others include the Electoral Act (2022), the Startup Act (2022), and the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act (2018), which Tajudeen said defined Buhari’s tenure.
He also noted infrastructural strides under Buhari, such as the revitalised rail lines — Abuja–Kaduna and Lagos–Ibadan — and the Second Niger Bridge.
Road rehabilitation projects across the country were also highlighted as lasting symbols of Buhari’s infrastructure push.
Rep. Sada Soli (APC-Katsina) described Buhari’s death as an irredeemable loss to his family, the North, and the nation at large.
He said Buhari was the North’s most charismatic leader since the late Sardauna of Sokoto and a patriot of uncommon stature.
Soli lauded Buhari’s six-decade career, saying he remained largely untouched by the corruption and excesses that often accompany political power.
He said Buhari was a moral compass to many Nigerians, admired for his simplicity and incorruptibility.
“Those who knew him will confirm he was deeply spiritual and believed this world is only a shadow of the hereafter,” he said.
Soli added that Buhari was never compromised by power and lived modestly, regardless of his position.
He said Buhari prioritised the poor and vulnerable over personal wealth or gain, always seeking to uplift the downtrodden.
Soli added that Buhari set a standard of leadership that may remain unmatched for years, praying for his eternal rest.
Rep. Nuhu Nalaraba (APC-Nasarawa) noted Buhari’s key role in forming the All Progressives Congress (APC), which led the party to victory in 2015.
He recalled Buhari’s decision to grant bailout funds to state governments struggling to pay salaries early in his administration.
Rep. Lanre Okunlola (APC-Lagos) described Buhari as a leader who embodied sacrifice and commitment to public service.
He recalled Buhari’s iconic quote: “I belong to everybody, I belong to nobody,” describing him as principled and focused.
Okunlola said Nigeria mourns not just a past president, but a father figure to the entire nation.
The House observed a minute’s silence in honour of Buhari, as lawmakers across party lines paid glowing tributes.
