As tributes continue to pour in nationwide over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, residents of Bauchi—one of his strongest political strongholds—have described his passing in a London hospital after a prolonged illness as a monumental loss to Nigeria.
Throughout his political journey, Buhari enjoyed sweeping electoral victories in Bauchi, winning the state in all presidential elections he contested. In return, he rewarded Bauchi’s loyalty with key appointments of its indigenes to influential national positions during his eight-year tenure.
Notably, he appointed Adamu Adamu as Minister of Education and Amb. Maryam Katagum as Minister of State for Trade and Investment. Other prominent Bauchi natives who served under his administration include Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, who remains the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar (rtd), former Chief of Air Staff, and Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s former envoy to Germany.
Reacting to the news, Musa Buba, a resident, described Buhari’s death as a “great loss to the country,” adding, “He was a leader of proven integrity with an unflinching love for ordinary Nigerians.”
Abubakar Jibrin, another supporter, hailed Buhari’s legacy, saying, “Nigeria has lost a patriotic leader who dedicated his life to repositioning the country. He’ll be remembered for sustaining fuel subsidy, which directly benefited the poor.”
Salisu Wakos recalled Buhari’s role in the Nigerian Civil War, where he served as a young commander. “His contributions ensured Nigeria remained united. That speaks volumes about his patriotism,” he said.
