The House of Representatives has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a towering figure in Nigeria’s history and a symbol of integrity, discipline, and public service.
In a statement issued by the Spokesman of the House, Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr., the lawmakers paid glowing tribute to the former President, who died on Sunday. Buhari served as Nigeria’s democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023, after previously leading the country as a Military Head of State from 1983 to 1985.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, GCON, said he received the news of Buhari’s death with shock. He described the late leader as “an officer and statesman who made a name for himself as incorruptible and lived a life defined by simplicity and a remarkable absence of materialism.”
“May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus,” Speaker Abbas prayed.
The House noted that Buhari’s administration worked constructively with the National Assembly, particularly on fiscal reforms that restored the January–December budget cycle starting in 2020. His presidency also saw the passage of several landmark laws, including:
The Petroleum Industry Act (2021)
Companies and Allied Matters Act (2020)
Finance Acts (2019–2022)
Deep Offshore and Inland Basin PSC Amendment Act (2019)
The House highlighted the constitutional amendments signed into law in March 2023, which empowered states on electricity generation, rail transport, and correctional services, and also ensured autonomy for state legislatures and judiciaries.
His administration institutionalised social welfare through the creation of the National Social Investment Programme Agency and promoted inclusion with laws like the Not Too Young to Run Act (2018). He also officially recognised June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day in honour of Chief MKO Abiola.
Buhari’s presidency delivered key infrastructure projects such as the Second Niger Bridge and significant rail and road investments aimed at national integration and long-term development.
The House described Buhari’s personal legacy as one defined by “spartan discipline, modesty, and moral clarity,” values that endeared him to millions of Nigerians.
The 10th House extended its condolences to his widow, H.E. Hajiya Aisha Buhari, the Government and People of Katsina State, and all Nigerians.
“May his legacy of public service, national integrity, and institutional reform endure in the annals of our nation’s history,” the statement concluded.
