Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), has revealed that he was receiving treatment in the same London hospital as the late former President Muhammadu Buhari shortly before the latter’s death.
Abdulsalami made the disclosure during an interview on a national television programme while recounting his final moments with Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025.
He said he had just been discharged from the hospital when he received news of Buhari’s demise and immediately returned to condole with the family and assist with the repatriation process.
“Unfortunately, we were in the same hospital together. But I had been discharged before Buhari died. When I heard the news of his passing, I quickly went back to offer my condolences and see how the family could prepare his remains for the journey back home,” Abdulsalami stated.
Describing Buhari’s death as a major loss to Nigeria and the West African region, the former military leader said the late President was known for his honesty and sense of duty.
“You could trust Buhari with anything on this earth and he would not betray you. He was a gentleman, very quiet but exceptionally honest,” he said.
Reflecting on their long-standing relationship, Abdulsalami said their friendship dated back to 1962 when both men joined the Nigerian military.
“He was my senior, and during the civil war, we fought in the same sector. Our bond grew from there,” he recalled.
He also hailed Buhari’s anti-corruption record, both as a military ruler and later as a democratically elected President, referencing the introduction of the War Against Indiscipline (WAI) during Buhari’s 1984 military regime.
However, he acknowledged that some individuals in Buhari’s civilian administration failed to live up to the high standards the late leader was known for.
“When he became a democratic president, he tried his best to fight corruption. Unfortunately, some of his officials fell short. They didn’t live up to expectations,” he noted.
Abdulsalami said the passing of Buhari would mark a shift in Nigeria’s political landscape and urged Nigerians to reflect on the values the late leader stood for.
“Buhari’s life was defined by duty, loyalty and a desire to instil national discipline. Despite his quiet nature, he had a strong character and was consistent in principle,” he said.
“We have lost a patriot who tried to make Nigeria better. His death is not just a loss to his family but to the entire nation,” he added.
