Former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Senate President Bukola Saraki, have paid tributes to late former President Umaru Yar’Adua.
Yar’Adua died on May 5, 2010 of pericarditis.
Jonathan who was Vice President under Yar’Adua before becoming president after his death, described Yar’Adua as a selfless leader.
“On this day nine years ago I lost a friend, colleague, brother, and boss, President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. He was a selfless leader who placed national interest above personal and ethnic gains.
“President Yar’Adua was a man of integrity with a humble spirit who always took upon himself the burden of national reconciliation, peace-building, and democratic consolidation.
“He used the opportunity he had in public service to build bridges of love, foster unity and give hope to Nigerians.
“Today, I remember and celebrate him for the works that he had done. Peace he lived for and homes of peace he built. Democracy he loved and democracy he nurtured. We will always remember you for your service. A servant leader truly you remain,” Jonathan wrote on Twitter.
Atiku called the former President a patriot and compassionate leader.
“This day, 9 years ago, Nigeria lost a patriot and a compassionate leader in President Umaru Yar’Adua. May Allah SWT continue to shine His Noor on his face. Amin,” he said.
Saraki, on his part, wrote: “Today, I remember the selfless statesman, former President Umaru Musa Yar’adua, who passed on 9-years ago.
“His legacy of integrity as a great leader will always remain indelible in our hearts. May the mercy of Almighty Allah (SWT) continue to be upon him. Amen.”
Senator Shehu Sani also described Yar’Adua as a true democrat and respecter of the rule of law.
“President Umaru Musa Yar’adua died on this day nine years ago. He was a honest man,a true democrat, respecter of the rule of law and a humble visionary. May Allah forgive his soul and grant him Aljanna Firdausi,” he said.
Senator-elect Orji Kalu wrote: “Today makes it 9 years since President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua departed the earth. He’s short reign as President remains indelible in our memories. He was a selfless leader with a clear set vision who made a great impact in our nation before his unfortunate demise. Rest on with God.”
