Osinbajo Mourns Buhari: ‘Nigeria Has Lost a True Patriot’

Former Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo has paid a heartfelt tribute to his former principal, President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a “true patriot whose life was marked by unyielding devotion to the nation he loved.” Buhari passed away on Sunday at the age of 82 in London.

In a condolence message personally signed and released on Sunday, Professor Osinbajo, along with his wife, Dolapo, expressed profound sadness upon receiving the news of Buhari’s demise. He revealed that they immediately reached out to the former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, and their son, Yusuf Buhari, to convey their heartfelt condolences and share in the family’s deep grief.

“Dolapo and I received, with profound sadness, the news of the passing of His Excellency, former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon,” Osinbajo stated. “In the moments that followed, we spoke with Her Excellency Aisha Buhari and their son Yusuf Buhari to express our heartfelt condolences and to share in the deep grief of their beloved family one with whom we had the honour of serving our nation for eight memorable years.”

Osinbajo, who served as Vice President alongside Buhari from 2015 to 2023, lauded the former President’s unwavering commitment to public service. “Nigeria has lost a true patriot—a man whose life was marked by unyielding devotion to the nation he loved,” he emphasized. “President Buhari’s legacy will endure as a testament to the nobility of public service, defined by honesty, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the public good.”

The former Vice President concluded his tribute with prayers for the bereaved family and all Nigerians mourning the loss of the former leader. “We pray that the Almighty God will grant comfort and strength to his family, and to all who mourn his passing. May his memory always be blessed,” he added.

Buhari’s passing in London comes after a period of prolonged illness. His eight-year presidency, with Osinbajo as his loyal second-in-command, focused on anti-corruption, insecurity, and economic diversification efforts, leaving a lasting imprint on Nigeria’s political landscape.