It was a moment of raw emotion and national grief as Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, broke down in uncontrollable tears during the funeral prayers of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, in his hometown of Daura.
The solemn ceremony, which drew dignitaries from across Africa and beyond, turned deeply emotional when Governor Radda, standing beside the remains of the late elder statesman draped in the Nigerian flag, was visibly overcome by sorrow.
Wiping tears with his white handkerchief, Radda stood momentarily speechless as prayers were offered for the soul of the late President. Mourners looked on as the Governor, known for his composure and strength, bowed his head in heartfelt tribute to a man he often referred to as “a father, a mentor, and the pride of Katsina.”
“Today, I lost more than a leader,” Radda later told journalists, his voice trembling. “I lost a father figure who shaped my political ideals, my patriotism, and my belief in integrity. His death is not only Katsina’s loss, it’s Nigeria’s heartbreak.”
The funeral, held under tight security and attended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, ministers, governors, and foreign dignitaries, was filled with prayers, eulogies, and symbolic gestures of respect. The Nigerian Army gave the final salute, while the national anthem echoed across the Daura Emir’s palace grounds.
But it was Radda’s visible grief that struck a chord with the crowd. Many were moved to tears themselves, whispering “Allah ya jikansa” (May Allah forgive him) as the casket was lowered.
As one elder in the crowd remarked, “If Governor Radda could cry like this, then Buhari was truly loved.”
Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s former military ruler and two-term democratic president, passed away in a London hospital. He was buried with full state honors in accordance with Islamic rites, leaving behind a towering legacy of discipline, modesty, and patriotism.
As the sun set over Daura, the quiet weeping of a Governor became the voice of a grieving nation.
About The Author
