CJN, AGF, NBA Mourn Buhari: ‘A Life of Duty, Discipline, and Purpose’
Top judicial and legal figures in Nigeria have paid solemn tribute to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday, July 13 at the age of 82 while receiving treatment in a hospital in the United Kingdom. Among those honoring his legacy were the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun; the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN); the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN); and Tony Ojukwu (SAN), Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission.
In separate condolence statements, they expressed deep sorrow over Buhari’s passing, celebrating his enduring legacy of discipline, integrity, and committed public service. Each tribute underscored his influential role in shaping Nigeria’s legal and political framework, and reaffirmed the impact of his leadership on national development.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, on Monday paid a heartfelt tribute to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on July 13 at the age of 83 in a London clinic. Describing the news as received “with sadness, but with gratitude to God for a life well lived,” Justice Kekere-Ekun praised Buhari’s enduring dedication to the Nigerian cause, highlighting his resilience through personal and political challenges.
In her official statement, the CJN recognized Buhari’s significant service to the nation, noting his tenure as both military Head of State and democratically elected President. She commiserated with Buhari’s family, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians, calling him a true statesman whose life was defined by discipline, duty, and a steadfast commitment to national development.
Justice Kekere-Ekun emphasized the late President’s principled leadership as a beacon in times of shifting values. She urged citizens to reflect on his legacy and draw strength from his example of public service and perseverance, extending her wishes for his soul to rest in perfect peace.
The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has described the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari as a defining moment marking the end of an era in Nigeria’s political and moral trajectory. In his official statement, Fagbemi reflected on Buhari’s influential presence in national leadership and governance, noting the late president’s profound impact on Nigeria’s institutional legacy.
He praised Buhari as a man whose life embodied devotion to both faith and country, characterized by humility, steadfastness, and moral integrity. According to Fagbemi, the former president’s commitment to principled service and national transformation left an enduring impression on the collective conscience of the nation.
Highlighting his contributions to the legal and judicial landscape, the Attorney General recalled Buhari’s efforts to strengthen justice administration and reform Nigeria’s legal frameworks. Under his leadership, the country witnessed bold policy shifts, the enactment of pivotal laws, and sweeping institutional reforms aimed at elevating governance standards.
Among Buhari’s landmark reforms were the modernization of correctional services and policing, enhancements to anti-money laundering measures, asset recovery systems, and steps toward federalism through power devolution. He also championed electoral reforms and advanced transparency and accountability in government practices.
Fagbemi singled out Buhari’s decisive role in initiating the legal challenge against the $11 billion P&ID arbitral award, describing it as a moment of strategic national defense. He credited President Bola Tinubu for continuing the effort, which ultimately spared Nigeria a crippling financial setback.
Even after leaving office, Buhari’s commitment to Nigeria remained undiminished. Fagbemi recalled personal visits to the former leader in London and Daura, where Buhari once again rose to the occasion to assist the nation in responding to another high-stakes legal dispute — the Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project. Remarkably, despite his age and retired status, Buhari agreed to testify before an international tribunal in Paris, demonstrating selfless patriotism.
In his closing remarks, Fagbemi extended heartfelt condolences to President Tinubu, former First Lady Aisha Buhari, and the entire Buhari family. He honored Buhari’s legacy as one built on principle, purpose, and national service, expressing hope that his soul finds eternal peace.
In a separate statement signed by its President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, on behalf of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), also joined the nation in mourning the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, describing it as the close of an important chapter in Nigeria’s history. In its tribute, the NBA extended heartfelt condolences to Buhari’s family, the Government, and the people of Nigeria, acknowledging the profound loss of a statesman who served the country with distinction.
President Buhari’s legacy, the association noted, spans decades of national leadership—from his time as Head of State to his tenure as democratically elected President. His unwavering commitment to anti-corruption, institutional reforms, and public sector integrity cemented his place in Nigeria’s governance chronicles. The NBA emphasized that no comprehensive account of Nigeria’s political evolution would be complete without recognizing his pivotal role and lasting impact.
In its statement, the NBA urged Nigerians to reflect deeply on the principles Buhari championed—national unity, accountability, and public service. These values, it stated, remain crucial to sustaining democratic ideals and fostering inclusive development across the country. The Association highlighted the importance of upholding these ideals in honoring Buhari’s enduring contributions to nation-building.
Concluding its tribute, the NBA prayed for the peaceful repose of the late President’s soul and strength for his bereaved family. It invoked blessings for eternal rest, expressing hope that Allah (SWT) grants him Aljanatul Firdaus in recognition of his dedication to the nation and faith.
Meanwhile in a separate statement, Tony Ojukwu (SAN), Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission on behalf of it’s commission also extended heartfelt condolences to the late former president’s family, the government and people of Nigeria, and all those mourning his loss.
The commission described Buhari as an elder statesman who served the nation with dedication and commitment.
“President Muhammadu Buhari will be remembered by the Commission for his significant contributions to the advancement of human rights and the pursuit of justice in Nigeria.
“His administration strengthened the capacity of the Commission by increasing its budgetary allocation and granting special intervention funds for the advancement of human rights.
“He also approved the National Action Plans for Business and Human Rights, as well as the NAP for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights — a clear demonstration of his belief in the promotion and protection of human rights for all Nigerians.
“Equally notable was his commitment to ensuring relative peace and security in the North East, where relentless efforts under his leadership helped to reduce insurgent threats and restore normalcy to many communities devastated by conflict.
“At this moment of national mourning, we pray that the Almighty grants his soul eternal rest and comforts his family and the entire nation.
“May his patriotic service and sacrifice for the unity, peace, and progress of Nigeria never be forgotten,” the commission concluded.
