The Minister of Works and former Governor of Ebonyi State, Senator David Umahi, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, highlighting the critical role the ex-leader played in safeguarding the will of the people of Ebonyi during a turbulent political period.
Speaking at the Federal Ministry of Works headquarters in Mabushi, Abuja, where he signed the condolence register in Buhari’s honour, Umahi reflected on a series of defining political moments that were made possible through Buhari’s personal intervention and steadfast sense of justice.
Buhari Saved Ebonyi’s Mandate — Umahi
Umahi revealed that during the lead-up to the last gubernatorial election in Ebonyi State, there were internal forces within the political system who sought to derail the candidacy of Francis Nwifuru, the now-governor of Ebonyi.
Recalling the episode with visible emotion, Umahi said,
“I can’t forget even when the enemies of progress tried to stop the emergence of my present governor. It was President Buhari who stepped in. He personally called the national chairman of our party and gave a direct instruction that Nwifuru must stand as the candidate. That singular act preserved the will of our people and changed the course of Ebonyi politics.”
He described the intervention as a turning point in his political career, stating that Buhari’s action was not only decisive but reflected his long-held values of fairness and respect for democratic processes.
A Relationship Beyond Politics
Senator Umahi also took a moment to share personal memories of his bond with the late President, especially their shared appreciation for Abakaliki rice, a staple from Ebonyi State.
“While he was in office, I used to send him Abakaliki rice regularly, and he loved it deeply. The last time we spoke was during the Salah before the last one. I had sent him rice again, and he called me, sounding so pleased. He said, ‘I’m not missing Abakaliki rice even though I’m no longer in office.’ That was Buhari simple, humble, and full of gratitude.”
A Tireless Leader
Reflecting on Buhari’s work ethic, Umahi recounted the President’s visit to Ebonyi State, during which he commissioned several projects from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. a feat that underscored his commitment to public service.
“That day, after we had gone from one project site to another nonstop, I escorted him to his room. He looked at me and said, ‘Governor, you really know how to punish someone.’ I replied, ‘You signed up for it, sir.’ We both laughed. That was the kind of leader he was hardworking and humorous.”
Humility in Power
The Works Minister also recalled how Ebonyi State’s airport was originally named after Muhammadu Buhari in his honour. However, in an unexpected move, the former President humbly requested it be renamed after late Senator Chuba Okadigbo.
“That’s how selfless the man was. He never wanted personal glorification. He preferred to honour others even when he was the one who deserved the recognition.”
Support to Ebonyi and Other States
Umahi praised Buhari for his unwavering support to state governments, noting that Ebonyi benefited immensely from federal interventions, including:
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Paris Club refunds
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The Anchor Borrowers Programme
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Infrastructure support funds
He also referenced Buhari’s public acknowledgment that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was instrumental in helping him secure the presidency in 2015.
“Despite what critics may say, Buhari was never shy to admit that Tinubu played a crucial role in his emergence as President. That’s the kind of gratitude and truthfulness he embodied.”
A National Loss
Concluding his remarks, Senator Umahi described Buhari’s passing as a profound loss to the entire nation. He offered prayers for the late President’s family, the current administration, and Nigerians at large.
“We’ve lost a rare patriot. May God grant his family, President Tinubu, and all Nigerians the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss.”
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