A former principal general staff officer (chief of staff), State House, Major-General Lawrence Onoja (rtd) has expressed sadness at the death of the immediate past president, Muhammadu Buhari. He passed away in a London hospital on Sunday, 13th July, at the age of 82.
In a statement issued to journalists yesterday in Abuja, the former military governor of Plateau and Katsina States extended his condolences to Mrs Aisha Buhari, the former first lady, the Buhari family, the Daura Emirate Council, and the government and people of Katsina State.
Describing the late president as “an epitome of integrity, discipline, humility, and patriotism,” Onoja highlighted Buhari’s unwavering love for Nigeria, which was evident in his decades of public service.
He recalled Buhari’s distinguished military career, during which he held several key command positions, and his leadership as head of state from 1983 to 1985, and again as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023.
Onoja also praised Buhari’s role in the Nigerian Civil War, describing his contributions to national unity as courageous and strategic. “His love for Nigeria was unshakable,” Onoja said, noting that Buhari’s life exemplified service and sacrifice.
Reflecting on their interactions, Onoja recounted serving under Buhari as commanding officer of the Guards Battalion while Buhari was the Lagos Garrison commander in Ikeja.
He described Buhari as “an exceptionally good and dedicated soldier.” He also recalled being responsible for Buhari’s welfare after his release from prison in 1988 while serving as the military governor of Katsina State.
“He had zero tolerance for corruption and sacrificed immensely for the good of the nation,” Onoja said.
The elder statesman described Buhari’s death as “a monumental loss, not just to his family but to the entire nation.”
He said the former president’s absence would be deeply felt at a time when his wisdom and experience were most needed.
Nonetheless, he commended Buhari for the enduring legacies of human and infrastructural development he left behind, stressing that history would remember him as a leader who placed the country above self.
Onoja concluded by praying for comfort for the bereaved family, strength for the people of Katsina State, and peaceful repose for the late president’s soul.
