Bishop Kukah: Buhari Was More Than His Presidency
Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of the Sokoto Catholic Diocese has called on Nigerians to remember the late President Muhammadu Buhari for his entire life of service , not just the eight years he served as a democratically elected leader.
In a phone interview, Bishop Kukah described Buhari as a “good man” who contributed to Nigeria’s growth in various roles, especially during his early career as a military officer .
“We shouldn’t focus on his eight years as President. We should remember him as a great man who served this country in many ways,” Kukah said.
He urged the nation to reflect and show compassion , rather than dwell on the controversies of Buhari’s civilian administration.
“Buhari’s Life Was Bigger Than His Presidency” – Cleric
Bukari, who died in London on Sunday, July 13, 2025 , at the age of 82 , held public office in both military and democratic eras .
He was military Head of State from 1983 to 1985 and later President of Nigeria from 2015 to 2023 .
Kukah, a former Secretary-General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria , said:
“His life of service extended beyond politics and governance.”
He encouraged Nigerians to honor Buhari’s broader contributions to national development and military reform , which many citizens may have overlooked in the political debates of recent years.
Cleric Offers Prayers for Buhari’s Soul, Family
Bishop Kukah prayed for the eternal rest of Buhari’s soul and extended heartfelt sympathies to his family, the people of Katsina , and all Nigerians mourning the loss of a former leader.
“May God grant him eternal rest and comfort his family,” he said.
He added:
“All of us as a nation are mourning.”
His message aligns with growing calls for national unity and respect for Nigeria’s political history as the country prepares for Buhari’s state burial in Daura, Katsina State .
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