Solemn Senate Session as Lawmakers Pay Tribute to Late President Muhammadu Buhari

The Senate on Wednesday held a solemn special plenary session in honour of the late former President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, General Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, who passed away on July 13, 2025.

The lawmakers observed a minute of silence at the end of the session, commending the Federal Government for the state funeral held in his honour and the renaming of the University of Maiduguri after him.

The motion to honour the former president was sponsored by Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central), who described Buhari as a gallant soldier, patriot, and democrat whose life embodied discipline, integrity, and selfless service to the nation.

In his lead debate, Bamidele traced Buhari’s life journey from his birth in Daura, Katsina State, on December 17, 1942, to his military training in Kaduna, India, and the United States. He highlighted his rise through the military ranks, participation in the Nigerian Civil War, and various national appointments including Military Governor of the old North Eastern State, Federal Commissioner for Petroleum, and Chairman of the NNPC before becoming Head of State in 1983.

The Senate reflected on Buhari’s disciplined leadership during his military rule and his eventual election as a civilian president in 2015 under the All Progressives Congress (APC), followed by his re-election in 2019.

Bamidele also mentioned Buhari’s national and international recognitions, his establishment of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF), and his emphasis on infrastructure development.

The lawmakers expressed deep sorrow over Buhari’s death in a London hospital following a prolonged illness and praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for declaring national mourning, ordering flags at half-mast, and the Senate’s own suspension of plenary for one week in his honour.

Senators took turns to pay tribute to the late leader.

Senator Danjuma Goje (Gombe Central) recalled Buhari’s God-fearing nature and influence from his days as military governor. Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) acknowledged Buhari’s integrity but noted his overreliance on trusted appointees. Senator Adams Oshiomhole (Edo North) hailed him as a leader committed to national unity.

Senate Chief Whip, Mohammed Tahir Monguno (Borno North), recounted Buhari’s refusal to embrace corrupt practices even at official events. Senator Abdul’aziz Yari (Zamfara West) recalled how Buhari was initially reluctant to join politics out of concern for potential violence.

Former Senate President Ahmad Lawan (Yobe North) praised Buhari’s respect for democratic institutions and non-interference in legislative affairs, even when opposition parties controlled the Senate.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the session, spoke of Buhari’s humanity, sharing an anecdote about a postponed cabinet reshuffle done out of compassion for a minister’s family.

Senator Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa West) lauded Buhari’s respectful engagement with opposition leaders, while Senator Ali Ndume (Borno South) mourned the loss of a leader who gave everything for the country.

Other tributes came from Senator Sani Musa (Niger East), who urged Nigerians to embrace Buhari’s values; Senator Sadiq Umar (Kwara North), who recalled Buhari’s famous declaration,