President William Ruto has joined African and global leaders in mourning the death of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday evening at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness.
In a heartfelt tribute shared on social media platform X, President Ruto described Buhari’s passing as a significant loss not only to the people of Nigeria but also to the African continent.
“President Buhari’s demise is a loss not only to the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria but also to the entire African Continent, which has been immeasurably enriched by his wisdom and steadfast commitment to the liberation and prosperity of the Nigerian people,” Ruto stated.
President Ruto hailed Buhari’s legacy in championing the fight against corruption, promoting peace and security, and fostering regional economic integration across Africa. He noted that Buhari’s leadership offered a firm moral compass during a critical period in Nigeria’s and Africa’s political evolution.
He fondly recalled Buhari’s visit to State House Nairobi in January 2016, which he described as a pivotal moment that strengthened diplomatic ties between Kenya and Nigeria.
Ruto also remembered Buhari as one of the first leaders to congratulate him following his victory in Kenya’s August 2022 general election, describing the gesture as a “display of faith in democratic governance and processes.”
Expressing Kenya’s solidarity with the people and government of Nigeria, Ruto added, “In this time of grief, Kenya stands in solidarity with the Government and People of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. May the legacy of President Buhari continue to inspire all of us in our pursuit of peace, dignity, and shared prosperity across Africa.”
Buhari, a former military general, first came to power in Nigeria through a coup in 1983 and ruled until 1985, when he was ousted. Decades later, he returned to leadership through democratic means, winning the presidency in 2015 and securing re-election in 2019. He served until 2023, when he handed over to current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
His death marks the end of an era for Nigeria and Africa, as leaders and citizens alike reflect on his decades-long impact on governance and integrity across the continent.
Written By Rodney Mbua
