…Says, it “fell short of lofty expectations of Nigerians.”
…Urges northern leaders to reflect on lessons of his era.
…Calls on current leaders to prioritize people’s welfare above personal interests.
by Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
In unanticipated remarks, a group under the guise of ‘Arewa Defence League’ (ADL), has faction out of expectations of others, alleging that President Buhari’s eight-year tenure fell short of the lofty expectations of many Nigerians.
In particularly, ADL faulted Buhari’s eight years’ administrations in the areas of security, economy, and national unity, adding, however, that even though it recognized that no leader is perfect.
These statements were contained in a tribute to late President Muhammadu Buhari, made available to our Correspondent in Kaduna yesterday, by the League President, Alh. Murtala Abubaker.
The statement reads: “Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilaihi Raji’un. From Allah we come, and to Him we shall return,” (Qur’an 2:156).
“The Arewa Defence League (ADL) joins millions of Nigerians, particularly the people of Northern Nigeria, in mourning the passing of our former President, Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR).
“As a leading youth organization that championed the principles of justice, equity, and power rotation in Nigeria, we remember President Buhari not just as a leader but as a symbol of the hopes and aspirations of the North and Nigeria at large.
“President Buhari was a man of the people, particularly the downtrodden; a disciplined military leader, and a democrat, who served Nigeria with dedication.
“The ADL was at the forefront of mobilizing Northern youths, in 2011 and 2015 elections, believing in Buhari’s promise of change, security, and economic revival.
We stood firm in the conviction that his leadership would address the long-standing challenges of underdevelopment, unemployment, and insecurity in the North.
“While President Buhari’s eight-year tenure (2015-2023) fell short of the lofty expectations of many Nigerians, particularly in the areas of security, economy, and national unity, we recognize that no leader is perfect,” it stated.
According to ADL, “The persistent insecurity, economic hardship, and regional divisions that lingered during his administration remained painful realities.
“Yet, we also remember his efforts in infrastructure development, social investment programs, and his personal discipline in public service. His fight against Boko Haram, though incomplete, laid some groundwork for future successes.
“As we bid farewell to President Buhari, we urge Nigerians – especially Northern leaders – to reflect on the lessons of his era. Leadership must go beyond personal or elite sentiments; it must deliver tangible progress, justice, security and unity for all,” they stated.
To the Buhari family, the people of Daura, and all Nigerians grieving his loss, the ADL added, “We extend our deepest condolences. May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, grant him Aljannah Firdaus, and give his loved ones the strength to bear this loss.”
The ADL stated that it remained committed to advocating for good governance, equity, and youth empowerment in Nigeria, saying, “We honor Buhari’s memory by calling on today’s leaders to prioritize the people’s welfare over personal or political interests. Rest in Peace, President Muhammadu Buhari.”