…Urges Northern leaders to reflect on lessons from his era
…Calls on current leaders to prioritize public welfare over personal interest
By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
In an unexpected tribute, the Arewa Defence League (ADL) has expressed disappointment over the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, stating that his eight-year tenure fell short of the lofty expectations held by many Nigerians.
In a statement made available to our correspondent in Kaduna yesterday, the League’s President, Alhaji Murtala Abubakar, criticized Buhari’s administration, particularly in the areas of security, economy, and national unity—despite acknowledging that no leader is perfect.
The statement began with a prayer: “Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilaihi Raji’un – From Allah we come, and to Him we shall return” (Qur’an 2:156).
“The Arewa Defence League (ADL) joins millions of Nigerians, particularly the people of Northern Nigeria, in mourning the passing of our former President, Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR),” the statement read.
“As a leading youth organization that champions the principles of justice, equity, and power rotation in Nigeria, we remember President Buhari not just as a leader, but as a symbol of the hopes and aspirations of the North and Nigeria at large.”
According to the ADL, Buhari was a disciplined military officer and a democrat who was seen as a man of the people, especially the downtrodden. The group recalled its active role in mobilizing Northern youths during the 2011 and 2015 elections, believing in Buhari’s promises of change, security, and economic revival.
“We stood firm in our conviction that his leadership would address the long-standing challenges of underdevelopment, unemployment, and insecurity in the North,” it said.
However, the League noted with regret that Buhari’s administration from 2015 to 2023 failed to meet expectations in several key areas.
“While President Buhari’s tenure fell short in the areas of security, economic growth, and national cohesion, we also acknowledge his contributions in infrastructure development, social investment programs, and his personal discipline in public service.”
The ADL stated that although his fight against Boko Haram did not fully resolve the security challenges, it laid some groundwork for future administrations.
The statement urged Nigerians—especially Northern leaders—to reflect deeply on the lessons of Buhari’s era.
“Leadership must transcend personal ambition or elite sentiment. It must focus on delivering real progress, justice, security, and national unity,” the group asserted.
To the Buhari family, the people of Daura, and Nigerians mourning his death, the ADL extended its condolences, praying: “May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, grant him Aljannah Firdaus, and give his loved ones the strength to bear this loss.”
The group reaffirmed its commitment to promoting good governance, equity, and youth empowerment.
“We honor President Buhari’s memory by calling on today’s leaders to place the people’s welfare above personal or political interests. Rest in peace, President Muhammadu Buhari.”
