Nura Muhammad Mahe, a grandson of Nigeria’s first democratically elected Executive President, Shehu Shagari, has applauded President Bola Tinubu for the dignified manner in which he honoured the late President Muhammadu Buhari with a state burial.
In a strongly worded statement, Mahe praised Tinubu for his attendance at the funeral and the establishment of a committee that ensured a national tribute befitting of Buhari’s status, calling it a notable display of respect and statesmanship.
According to Mahe, Tinubu’s actions marked a significant departure from how the Buhari administration handled the passing of his grandfather, Shehu Shagari, in 2018. While reflecting on what he described as a moment of national unity shown by Tinubu, Mahe pointed out the stark contrast in Buhari’s response when it was his turn to honour a predecessor.
He noted that despite being in the country at the time of Shagari’s death, Buhari did not attend the funeral nor did he declare a state burial for the former president.
Instead, Mahe recalled, Buhari dispatched a delegation led by then Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, to represent him—a gesture Mahe described as insufficient and disrespectful, particularly given the magnitude of Shagari’s contribution to Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“It was especially disappointing,” Mahe said, “that the official representative at Shagari’s funeral was not even a Muslim, in a country where religious sensitivity and cultural traditions carry significant weight.”
He further lamented what he called Buhari’s consistent coldness toward Shagari, implying that political bitterness may have influenced Buhari’s detached conduct even in the face of the former leader’s passing. “It remains a painful memory that Shagari’s death occurred under the leadership of a man who many believe harboured political animosity toward him,” the statement read. “Even in death, Buhari showed little public remorse or respect for his predecessor.”
Mahe concluded the statement by offering prayers for all of Nigeria’s departed presidents, emphasizing that whether they are remembered for their achievements or their controversies, their contributions remain etched into the national memory. He urged Nigerians to reflect not only on the policies of their leaders but also on how they conduct themselves in moments of national transition and mourning.
What you should know
Nura Muhammad Mahe, the grandson of late President Shehu Shagari, praised President Tinubu for honouring Muhammadu Buhari with a state burial, while expressing disappointment in Buhari’s failure to accord the same respect to Shagari in 2018.
Mahe’s remarks highlight perceived political grudges and double standards in how Nigeria commemorates its past leaders.
