Buhari: ‘We Have Lost A Patriot, Father, Nationalist,’ Ex-Speaker Dogara Mourns

Former Speaker of the House Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara has expressed deep shock over the passing of former President, Muhammadu Buhari.

Buhari, a former military Head of State and two-term elected president passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at a London hospital after a protracted illness.

Dogara, in a condolence message he personally signed, described the late Buhari as a true patriot and a nationalist who not only believed in Nigeria, but worked all his life for its unity and progress.

The former Speaker noted that Buhari fought in the civil war to preserve the nation’s unity both as a military officer and later, as Head of State.

“When I was elected as Speaker of the House of Representatives just few days after he was inaugurated as president in June, 2015, though not an outcome he had anticipated, he nonetheless accepted the outcome and worked with us as a father and leader,” Dogara recalled.

He described Buhari’s passing at this time is a huge loss to Nigeria and Nigerians.

Dogara emphasised that Nigeria needed the late former Nigerian leader’s elderly wisdom, counsel and experience to navigate its current challenges.

“However, we cannot question the Creator and giver of life,” he emphasised.

Dogara prayed for God to give Hajiya Aisha Buhari, the bereaved children and the entire family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

He also prayed Allah to forgive the former President’s shortcomings and grant him eternal rest.