Shagari’s Grandson Praises Tinubu for Honouring Buhari, Laments Grandfather’s Neglect
In a striking comparison of presidential legacies, Nura Muhammad Mahe, grandson of Nigeria’s former President Shehu Shagari, has publicly commended current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his respectful treatment of predecessor Muhammadu Buhari during state funeral arrangements.
A Contrast in Presidential Protocol
Mahe’s statement highlighted Tinubu’s personal attendance at Buhari’s funeral and the establishment of a special committee to organize a state burial as exemplary acts of statesmanship. “This gesture demonstrates true honour and promotes national unity,” Mahe observed.
The commendation comes with a pointed contrast to how Mahe’s grandfather, Nigeria’s first democratically elected executive president, was treated during the Buhari administration. “The difference in protocol speaks volumes about presidential character,” Mahe noted.
Historical Grievance Resurfaces
The statement revisits what many consider a controversial moment in Nigeria’s political history. When Shagari passed away in 2018, then-President Buhari—despite being in the country—neither attended the funeral nor authorized full state honours.
“Instead of presidential presence, we received a government delegation led by then-Secretary to the Government of the Federation Boss Mustapha, a non-Muslim official,” Mahe recalled, emphasizing what he views as a breach of protocol and cultural sensitivity.
Legacy of Leadership and Respect
Mahe’s remarks underscore ongoing tensions within Nigeria’s political elite regarding proper recognition of former leaders. “President Shagari served Nigeria with distinction, yet his passing was marked by noticeable absence from his successor,” the statement read.
The comparison between Tinubu’s handling of Buhari’s funeral and Buhari’s treatment of Shagari’s passing has sparked renewed discussion about political reconciliation in Nigeria. Analysts suggest such protocol decisions often reflect deeper historical relationships between administrations.
Call for National Healing
While praising Tinubu’s actions, Mahe took care to frame his comments as part of a broader conversation about national unity. “We pray for all departed leaders, recognizing that their legacies—both achievements and controversies—form our collective history,” he stated.
The statement concluded with hopes for continued statesmanship in honoring Nigeria’s former leaders, suggesting that proper recognition of past service helps heal political divisions.
Full credit to the original publisher: Independent Nigeria