Lai Mohammed, former minister of information, says he spent three nights with Muhammadu Buhari during his last visit to the former president in Daura, Katsina state.
Buhari died on Sunday in a clinic in London, following a prolonged illness.
In a statement issued on Monday, Mohammed described Buhari’s death as a deeply personal loss.
He said the former president was not just a boss but also a mentor, a pillar of support, and a father figure.
“Many have rightly described him in their tributes as a rare patriot, a man of unwavering faith and character, an incorruptible leader, a humble statesman and the very epitome of honesty,” he said.
“But beyond those noble attributes, President Buhari was a true humanist, a man who constantly prioritised empathy, compassion and the well-being of others in all his actions.”
Mohammed said Buhari always showed concern for his welfare during their time in office, despite carrying heavier responsibilities.
“Throughout the nearly eight years that I served as the spokesman for his government, he always asked after my well-being and how I was coping with the demands of the job, even though the burden he bore was infinitely heavier,” he said.
“On one occasion, he publicly remarked, ‘I pity Lai Mohammed’.”
He said Buhari’s confidence in him was a source of strength during challenging times.
“In his eyes, I could do no wrong, and that unwavering support meant the world to me,” he said.
The former minister said he kept in touch with Buhari even after they left office, recalling his last visit to Daura.
“Our special relationship transcended our time in office, as I made sure I kept in touch with him after he left Abuja, and during my last visit to Daura, I spent three nights with him,” he said.
He said their final meeting was in Kaduna during the last Ramadan, although Buhari was not expected to receive visitors, he made time for him.
“We spent many hours together, just the two of us. Little did I know it would be our last meeting on this side of the great divide,” he said.
Mohammed said he continued to check on Buhari’s health through his aides after he was flown to London for treatment.
He described working with Buhari as a privilege and prayed for the repose of his soul.
“I pray that Almighty God will forgive all his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus,” he said.
“May He also comfort his family and all Nigerians who mourn the loss of this remarkable man.”
