SAN FRANCISCO, May 05, (THEWILL) – President Muhammadu Buhari has openly acknowledged his political differences with the late former President Umaru Musa Yar’adua, writing in a tribute on the 10th anniversary of his death that he was a patriot.
Yar’Adua defeated Buhari in the highly discredited 2007 presidential election. He served from May 29, 2007 and died in office from an undisclosed ailment on May 5, 2010. Both are from Katsina State.
Garba Shehu, Buhari’s spokesman in a statement said: “As Nigerians observe the 10th anniversary of the death of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, President Muhammadu Buhari has extolled the virtues of the leader, who served as Governor of Katsina State for eight years.
President Buhari said: “Despite our political differences, President Yar’Adua was unarguably a patriot because of his passion for the masses and his reversal of policies he believed were hurting ordinary Nigerians.
“Every leader should be given the credit that he deserves, whether you agree with President Yar’Adua politically or not, I must say that history will always record his honest and sincere service to the country.
“As we remember President Yar’Adua today, let us emulate his patience and gentle nature so that we don’t introduce toxicity into our politics where opponents perceive each other as enemies.
“Let me also use this occasion to extend my prayers and goodwill to his family, and Katsina State Government on the 10th anniversary of his demise. May Allah continue to bless and comfort his gentle soul.’’
