Former President, Goodluck Jonathan, has paid tribute to his late boss, late ex-President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who died 13 years ago.
Jonathan, who served as Yar’Adua‘s Vice between 2007 and 2010, described him as a “great and selfless leader.”
He made this statement in a post shared via his Twitter handle on Friday.
He wrote, “On this day thirteen years ago, our nation lost a great and selfless leader, President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. He was a man of peace, justice and accountability.
“We look back with appreciation to God for his life and his impact on our nation.
“President Yar’Adua was an exemplary leader, who lived above ethnic and religious sentiments. 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. – GEJ”
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.
The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the February 25 election, Atiku Abubakar, 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”.
Yar’Adua was sworn in as President in 2007 but died in 2010 before completing his first term, and Jonathan took over as acting President and later became the President between 2010 and 2015.
