The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday held a special plenary session in honour of the late former President and Commander-in-Chief, General Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, who passed away on July 13, 2025.
The session was marked by deep reflections on the former president’s military and democratic contributions to Nigeria.
Senators observed a minute of silence in his memory and called on the Federal Government to name a national monument after him.
The motion to honour the late President was moved by Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, who described Buhari as a gallant soldier, patriot, and a symbol of discipline and integrity.
Bamidele traced Buhari’s legacy from his birth in Daura, military service during the civil war, and key leadership roles, including as Military Governor, Federal Petroleum Commissioner, NNPC Chairman, and Head of State in 1983.
He also highlighted Buhari’s return to democratic governance, his 2015 and 2019 election victories under the APC, and his leadership in driving infrastructure and anti-corruption reforms.
The Senate commended President Bola Tinubu for granting the late leader a befitting state funeral, declaring a national mourning period, and ordering flags at half-mast.
The Senate also suspended sittings for a week in his honour.
Senator Danjuma Goje described Buhari as a God-fearing man whose legacy shaped a generation, while Senator Abdul Ningi praised his integrity but noted his excessive trust in appointees.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole remembered Buhari as a compassionate leader committed to Nigeria’s unity, and Senator Monguno recalled Buhari’s refusal to embrace corrupt political traditions.
Senator Abdul’aziz Yari shared how Buhari initially resisted politics, only joining after persuasion by clerics, while Senator Ahmad Lawan hailed his non-interference in Senate affairs, calling him a true democrat.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio led the tributes, revealing personal stories of Buhari’s compassion and decency, including postponing a cabinet reshuffle to avoid disrupting a minister’s family.
Other senators, including Sani Musa, Sadiq Umar, and Osita Izunaso, praised Buhari’s discipline, honesty, and insistence on clean politics, noting how he once rejected a N200 million campaign donation.
Bipartisan tributes flowed from across the chamber, with all acknowledging Buhari’s complex but enduring legacy, both as a soldier and statesman.
The session closed with a final moment of silence as lawmakers affirmed that Buhari’s name would remain etched in Nigeria’s democratic and leadership history.
COV/Bashir M
