The factional chairman of the Labour Party, Barr. Julius Abure, on Monday expressed sadness over news of the passing of former president Muhammadu Buhari, saying, “I am deeply pained that he died when his wealth of experience and wise counsels are needed the most in the country.”

In a press statement made available to journalists in Abuja, Abure said:

“When in December 1983, General Buhari as a young military officer assumed leadership as the military Head of State, he worked so hard to restore sanity and return Nigeria into a path of integrity, discipline and incorruption. He fought against decay and moral impunity in the political system. His return into power between 2015 and 2023 also brought much relief and sanity to millions of Nigeria as exemplified by his humane approach to governance.

“President Buhari was a patriot and a statesman who wished that the flawed system in Nigeria worked. He wanted a democracy that worked. It was under his government that the Electoral Act was passed, an Act that was to ensure that democracy is deep rooted.

“He was a committed, courageous, disciplined, and honest leader. He left a legacy of service and our prayers is that he would be remembered for those laudable and courageous policies he saw through.

“Muhammadu Buhari died on Sunday in a London hospital after battling an undisclosed illness. He was 82.

“We in the Labour Party join millions of Nigeria and other world leaders across the globe to mourn the passing of this great man.

“I extend my deepest condolences to his immediate family, loved ones and Nigeria, and I pray that Allah (SWT), in His infinite mercy, forgive his shortcomings, accept his deeds, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus. Ameen.”