Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), has disclosed that he was admitted to the same London hospital as the late President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, at the age of 82.
In an interview with Channels Television, Abubakar, who is 83, revealed that he only learnt of Buhari’s death after he had been discharged from the medical facility.
“Unfortunately, we were in the hospital together, but I have been discharged,” he said. “When I heard the news of his passing, I quickly went there to condole with the family and see what could be done to prepare the body for its journey home.”
The retired general recalled their long-standing relationship which dates back to 1962, when both men joined the Nigerian military. He described Buhari as a quiet but deeply honest individual.
“Gen. Buhari is a gentleman who is very quiet but exceptionally honest. You can trust Buhari with anything on this earth and he will not betray you,” Abubakar stated.
He also lauded Buhari’s commitment to tackling corruption, both as a military ruler and during his tenure as a democratically elected president. Abubakar referenced Buhari’s War Against Indiscipline (WAI) initiative and noted his continued anti-corruption efforts in his civilian presidency, despite some shortcomings by officials in his administration.
“Unfortunately, some of the officers who served with him are found wanting. They didn’t do as much as is expected of them. May he rest in peace,” he added.
Abubakar said Buhari’s death was a great loss to Nigeria, noting that President Bola Tinubu had directed Vice-President Kashim Shettima to accompany the late president’s body back to the country for burial.
“With the passing away of President Buhari, politics in Nigeria will certainly change. I hope for the better,” he remarked.
Abdulsalami Abubakar served as Nigeria’s military head of state from 1998 to 1999, following the death of General Sani Abacha, and played a key role in returning the country to civilian rule.
Buhari is scheduled to be laid to rest on Tuesday, July 15, in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State.