CHUKA UBAH
The Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has extended its sincere condolences to the Northern leadership, the immediate family of the late Muhammadu Buhari, and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the demise of the former President and Head of State.
P.M.EXPRESS reports as stated in a press release signed by their Deputy President General and National Spokesman,Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro and Chief Chimereze Thompson Ohia respectively.
Ohanaeze said, “In accordance with our Igbo customs and traditions, we recognize and respect the sanctity of human life, extending our condolences despite the complex legacy left by the deceased”.
“General Buhari (Rtd) was recognized as a disciplined soldier and, in many quarters, a leader revered by many in Northern Nigeria. However, the experiences of the Igbo people during his administration from 2015 to 2023 are tinged with deep-seated grievances and painful memories. While we acknowledge that forgiveness is a virtue, it is imperative to note that the scars of the past will not easily fade from our collective consciousness.”
“The Igbo people endured victimization and vulnerability, often exacerbated by the misuse of state machinery during Buhari’s tenure. Many cannot fathom how the Federal Government maintained an unsettling silence regarding the atrocities committed by Fulani herdsmen and militias against our communities. Profoundly troubling statements made by Buhari, such as “a dot in the circle” or “teaching Igbos the language they will understand,” linger in our minds, serving as reminders of the insensitivity that often marked his presidency.”
“Moreover, the glaring disparity in the treatment of confirmed Boko Haram terrorists and hardened Northern bandits—who were released and even reintegrated into society—contrasts sharply with the harsh reality faced by harmless Biafra agitators who languish in various prison facilities across Nigeria. Such inequities underscore a painful narrative that the Igbo people will not easily forget. The ongoing insecurity in the Southeast, which has its roots in policies pursued under Buhari’s administration, has resulted in a tragic cycle of violence and injustice that we continue to face.”
“Furthermore, the arrest of Nnamdi Kanu, a prominent figure within our community, under Buhari’s watch—and his continued detention—represents a significant grievance that exacerbates our collective memory of his time in power. “
“In delivering this candid assessment of Buhari’s legacy, we feel compelled to articulate the distressing reality: Nigeria’s situation notably deteriorated during his administration. The economy faltered, security eroded, and both infrastructure and healthcare systems weakened significantly. It is painfully evident that there were forces within Buhari’s government that championed a “Fulanization agenda,” which favoured nepotism at the expense of competence and prioritized corruption over merit.”
“As we reflect upon the lessons drawn from the life and leadership of General Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd), it becomes paramount that current and future leaders at all levels of governance—from the highest offices to the local councils—heed the lessons embedded within his legacy. The rating of Buhari’s administration, as perceived by many Nigerians, remains firmly below average. This should serve as a stark reminder that power is inherently transient. The legacies left behind will ultimately be judged by history and the very people whom they were meant to serve.”
“In our capacity as Ohanaeze Ndigbo, we assert that the Igbo people are inherently forgiving. We extend our prayers that Allah will forgive Buhari’s shortcomings and grant him eternal peace. Let this moment serve as an opportunity for reflection and a clarion call to all those in power: to prioritize the well-being of the citizenry and to build legacies characterized by integrity, justice, and compassion” the group stated.