A Tribute to a People General: My Final Reflections on late President Buhari -By Abba Dukawa

Every soul will taste death.Quran 3:185 and 21:35) This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the inevitability of death and the importance of living a righteous life according to Islamic teachings.

Therefore celebrating the death of a fellow person is not a recommended or condoned practice. Culturally and religiously like Islam and Christianity emphasizes the importance of respecting the deceased and supporting those who are grieving, rather than celebrating the person’s passing.

Jubilating someone’s death is uncommon in any cultures and religions. Displaying such behavior reveals a lack of empathy and maturity. Regardless of affiliation, mortality is universal, and actions have consequences. The law of karma suggests that deeds will ultimately come full circle.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari’s life came to an end at 82. Twenty-five months after transitioning to President Tinubu’s administration, he led a quiet life, eschewing public events and interviews, consistent with his reserved nature.

Since exiting the public stage, few mainstream media outlets have had the privilege of securing an interview with him, highlighting his selective engagement in his post-presidency.

For those familiar with my views on the late President’s administration policies, my comments might seem surprising, given my criticisms. However, I want to clarify that I’m a Buharist at heart, and my intention is not to fuel hate, but to objectively reflect on the administration’s shortcomings. With the benefit of hindsight, I’m highlighting my disappointment with how things turned out, which isn’t relevant now.

While his passing wasn’t entirely unexpected, the aftermath has been remarkable. Reactions poured in from across the country, with praise.

Unfortunately, some individuals exploited the situation, manipulating children into celebrating his death. Others, driven by ulterior motives, took to social media to spread vitriol and paint him in a negative light.

No leader in the country had garnered massive followership like his, yet none had their supporters turn against him as dramatically due to unmet expectations and the crippling hardships caused by some of his administration’s policies.

With barely a month left in office, President Buhari delivered a poignant address on April 21, 2023, during an Eid-el-Fitr Sallah celebration at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where he reflected on his eight-year tenure (2015-2023).

In one of his most introspective speeches, he expressed gratitude to Nigerians for the privilege of serving two terms and humbly sought their forgiveness.

Buhari also expressed openness to criticism, acknowledging complaints as part of the responsibility he had accepted. ‘God gave me an incredible opportunity to serve this country. We’re all human. If I’ve hurt anyone during my tenure, I ask for their pardon,’ he said, humbly adding, ‘To those I’ve hurt, I beg for forgiveness.

To the millions of Nigerians who harbor grudges against him, he implores forgiveness and release from resentment. For those who expected prosperity but faced hardship instead during his regime, it reminds them that only God can truly enrich; no mortal can guarantee wealth.

For those struggling to afford basic necessities like rice as prices soared during his tenure, exceeding monthly earnings, they acknowledge the economic challenges that plagued them into dire situations.

May Allah grant the deceased ease during the questioning by Munkar and Nakir, angels who inquire about faith, deeds, and life, as they transition to the afterlife. May Allah grant him eternal rest and forgive his shortcomings coming.

Dukawa, a public analyst, writes from Abuja and can be reached via abbahydukawa@gmail.com