Yemi Obafemi
Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has said that whether one loved or hated the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, his unwavering commitment to national service left an indelible mark, adding that the North and indeed Nigeria will never be the same without him.
In a tribute following Buhari’s passing in London on July 13, Keyamo praised the former president’s widespread support, particularly in the North, where he was regarded not just as a political leader, but almost as a spiritual figure.
He described Buhari as a unique and unprecedented figure in Nigeria’s political history, saying he achieved a level of loyalty and reverence no other leader has matched.
According to the minister, Buhari earned “the unflinching, unconditional, unquestioning and literally fanatical adulation and love of the whole of the core North and the support of many in the South,” making him the most revered leader of modern Nigeria.
Keyamo likened Buhari’s legacy to historical Northern figures such as Sheik Usman Dan Fodio and Sir Ahmadu Bello, but noted that Buhari stood out by becoming “the indisputable leader of not just the North but also of the whole of Nigeria”—a feat he achieved three times in his lifetime.
“He was a rare phenomenon and an intriguing enigma: a remarkable man and inspirational leader whose destiny was intrinsically intertwined with Nigeria’s,” Keyamo stated.
The minister added that Buhari’s role transcended politics, describing his influence in the North as akin to a religious movement, with a following that was “indescribable, unprecedented and massive.”
“Love him or hate him, his commitment to the service of our nation has left an indelible mark. The North—and indeed Nigeria—shall never be the same without him.”
