Yar’Adua: He was a man of peace – Atiku, Jonathan, others remember former president

Ex-President, Goodluck Jonathan, former presidential aspirant, Atiku Abubakar and social commentator, Shehu Sani on Friday marked the 13th year anniversary of the death of late Nigerian President, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua..

Other prominent Nigerians also took to their Twitter handles to recall how the former president was committed to ensuring that the country fared better in all ramifications.

Atiku, in his tweet, described the late president as a devoted leader who was unwaveringly committed to the people of Nigeria.

He wrote, “In loving memory of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, a devoted leader, and a champion for democracy. As we mark the anniversary of his passing on May 5, 2010, we are reminded of his unwavering commitment to the people of Nigeria and his steadfast dedication to the sanctity of the ballot and his relentless pursuit of a fair and transparent electoral process. President Yar’Adua was a beacon of humility and integrity, acknowledging the shortcomings of the very election that brought him to power in 2007.

“His ability to recognize and strive for improvements in Nigeria’s electoral system speaks volumes about his character and his devotion to the nation. Despite the illness that eventually claimed his life, President Yar’Adua continued to fight for a better Nigeria, initiating a correcting process and setting a path for future leaders to follow.

“His enduring legacy is a testament to his passion for democracy and justice. As we honour his memory today, let us be inspired by his vision and unwavering determination to create a more just and equitable society for all Nigerians.

“Thank you for your selfless service, Mr President. And may the Almighty Allah continue to grant you Al-Jannah Firdaus”.

President Goodluck Jonathan, who served as a vice to Yar’Adua from 2007 to 2010, described his former principal as a “man of peace, justice and accountability”.

He said, “On this day thirteen years ago, our nation lost a great and selfless leader, President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. We look back with appreciation to God for the gift of his life and his impact on our nation. President Yar’Adua was an exemplary leader, who lived above ethnic and religious sentiment. And his public life inspired many positively.

“Today we remember him for his life of service, dedication and commitment to a united and prosperous nation. We will continue to remember him for his developmental strides and his commitment to the peace and progress of Nigeria”.

Meanwhile, Shehu Sani in a post on his official Twitter handle prayed that the soul of the late president continues to rest in peace.

He wrote, “Yar’adua; the nation couldn’t tolerate his sickness and his cabal but ended up tolerating another sickness and another cabal. May his soul Rest In Aljanna Firdausi, Amin”.