The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) have expressed deep sorrow over the death of Nigeria’s immediate past President, General Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd.), describing his passing as the end of an era in the country’s political history.
In separate statements issued over the weekend , the northern groups paid glowing tributes to the late former leader, highlighting his decades of service, patriotism, and enduring popularity among Nigeria’s ordinary citizens, particularly in the North.
The ACF, in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, described Buhari as “a recurring decimal in policy and governance circles” for nearly 60 years, having served in various capacities including Military Governor of the defunct Northeastern State (1975–1979), Federal Commissioner for Petroleum Resources, Military Head of State (1983–1985), and twice democratically elected President (2015–2023).
“The late retired General was therefore a recurring decimal in policy and governance circles in Nigeria for nearly the past 60 years,” the statement read. “Perhaps as should be expected, his services to Nigeria could not have failed to elicit mixed reactions… but there is no Nigerian alive today that enjoyed the love and loyalty of the Nigerian downtrodden especially in the North like the late President Muhammadu Buhari,” he said.
While acknowledging the controversial and transformative periods of Buhari’s leadership, the ACF said it would leave history to judge his contributions, adding that “some of the controversies and other memories as his legacies will linger and be subjected to analyses.”
The Forum prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul in Aljanna Firdaus and extended condolences to his family, the government and people of Nigeria, and Katsina State in particular.
On its part, the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) said Buhari’s death marks “the end of an era” and called on Nigerians to reflect on his values of integrity, unity, and public service.
In a statement signed by its President-General, Yerima Shettima, AYCF paid tribute to Buhari’s personal and political legacy, urging Nigerians—especially the youth—to honour his memory by striving to build a better nation.
“To his immediate family, we extend our deepest sympathies. The loss of a father, grandfather, and husband is immeasurable, and we stand with you in this time of grief,” Shettima said.
The group also appealed to Nigerians not to allow the moment to pass without reflection.
“We call on all citizens to reflect on the lessons learned from President Buhari’s life and to strive for a Nigeria that embodies his vision of integrity, unity, and progress,” the statement said.
General Muhammadu Buhari died earlier this week (official date and cause of death yet to be announced at press time).
He was aged 82.
He is expected to be buried in accordance with Islamic rites. Further funeral arrangements are being awaited from the presidency.