The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, on Tuesday, led a high-powered delegation from the National Assembly on a condolence visit to Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State, following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
During the visit to Daura, the late president's hometown, Senator Akpabio paid glowing tribute to Buhari, describing him as “a patriot, a man of integrity, and a shining national icon who served Nigeria with distinction both as a military leader and a democratically elected president.”
He revealed that the delegation had encountered travel disruptions the previous day when their aircraft could not land due to the temporary closure of the Katsina airport, forcing a diversion to Abuja. “We insisted on coming back today to honour a man who gave everything for Nigeria,” Akpabio stated.
The Senate President, who previously served as a minister under Buhari’s administration, said the former president’s legacy was rooted in discipline, humility, and deep love for the country. He also recalled his insistence that the Faculty of Law at the Federal University, Dutsin-Ma be named after Buhari rather than himself, in recognition of the former president’s enduring contributions.
Governor Radda, while receiving the delegation, expressed gratitude and shared fond memories of his relationship with the late president. “Since his retirement, I visited Baba every two to three weeks. He always reminded me to fear God, lead with justice, and love this country,” the governor said.
He described Buhari as warm and inspiring, despite his reserved public image. “His passing is a great loss to Katsina, to Nigeria, and to all of us who looked up to him as a father,” Radda added.
Senator Akpabio also commended Governor Radda’s leadership, highlighting the historic bond between Katsina and Akwa Ibom states, which were both created on the same day. “Development doesn’t come from money alone—it comes from love for the people,” he remarked.
The delegation included Chief Whip Senator Tahir Munguno, Senator Ali Ndume, Senator Saliu Mustapha, Senator Benson Agadaga, Senator Munir, Senator Sani Zangon Daura Jr., and Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong.
The visit formed part of a series of national tributes pouring in for the late former president, who died earlier this month and is being remembered for his legacy of service and integrity.
