In a solemn and emotional gathering at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday, July 16, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) held a special session in honour of Nigeria’s late former President, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR.
Presiding over the session, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered a moving tribute, portraying Buhari as a man defined by discipline, moral courage, and deep-rooted patriotism.
Tinubu acknowledged that Buhari was not a perfect man—“no leader is,” he noted—but described him as “a good, decent, and honourable man.” While conceding that every legacy invites scrutiny, Tinubu insisted that Buhari’s character, moral conviction, and incorruptible standard would stand the test of time.
“He stood always ramrod—unmoved by the temptation of power, unseduced by applause, and unafraid of the loneliness that sometimes comes to those who do what is right rather than popular,” Tinubu said.
The chamber, filled with cabinet ministers, senior officials, and aides, was hushed in reflective silence as the President spoke with both personal warmth and national pride. He described Buhari’s leadership as one of “austere honour,” marked by self-restraint and a principled approach to power.
Reflecting on their shared political history, Tinubu recalled the 2015 election that led to Nigeria’s first democratic transfer of power from one ruling party to another. He commended Buhari’s calm and dignified leadership during that historic transition, describing it as a model of democratic maturity.
“His righteousness never sought attention,” Tinubu said. “He lived his patriotism more through action than through words.”
The President further noted that Buhari set a moral tone in governance—anchored in transparency, justice, and quiet strength—that should serve as a benchmark for future Nigerian leaders.
The special FEC session ended with prayers and a moment of silence in memory of the late president, who passed away at [insert date if known]. Tributes continue to pour in from across the country as Nigerians remember a man who, for decades, personified modesty in leadership and principled public service.
President Tinubu’s eulogy now stands as the government’s formal recognition of Buhari’s legacy. Concluding his tribute, he declared: “The incorruptible standard he represented will not be forgotten.”
