Former governor of Anambra, Willie Obiano, has described late President Muhammadu Buhari as a leader who upheld democracy and ensured that votes in Anambra truly counted during elections.
Obiano, in a tribute released on Tuesday through his former aide and ex-commissioner for information, Paul Nwosu, said Buhari stood by democratic ideals and resisted alleged attempts to undermine the electoral process in the state.
“He firmly resisted alleged attempts to undermine the democratic space in the state and stood by democratic ideals and upheld the sanctity of his mandate,” Obiano said.
He described the former president’s death as “very painful,” noting that July 13, the day Buhari passed away in a London hospital, was a “black day” for him and his family.
Obiano hailed Buhari as a disciplined and principled leader who confronted corruption with uncommon resolve and served Nigeria with sincerity and simplicity.
He said history would remember the former president as a man of conviction who stood firm on matters he believed in.
The former governor praised Buhari’s fairness and respect for democratic processes, stating that he rose above partisanship in dealing with political actors across the country.
He stated: “Despite our political differences, he offered me a rare friendship.
“He welcomed me warmly into his inner circle, included me on presidential delegations abroad, and granted me unfettered access to his office. His openness and magnanimity defined him as a man of repute.”
Obiano said Buhari’s death marked the end of an era in Nigerian politics and prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.
“President Muhammadu Buhari will be greatly missed. May his soul find eternal rest,” he said.
