In response to the news of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s passing, ex-NLC President Ayuba Wabba expressed his shock, particularly among workers who directly benefited from Buhari’s empathetic leadership and economic policies designed to uplift the underprivileged.
“What was intended to be a routine health check in London sadly led to the loss of a Commander-in-Chief who will be remembered for his steadfast support of the poor and vulnerable,” Wabba remarked.
He recalled that shortly after Buhari took office in 2015, he approved a $2.1 billion bailout package aimed at alleviating the financial struggles of states overwhelmed with unpaid salaries and pension arrears. “He was genuinely concerned about the hardships faced by workers and often questioned state governors about how they could rest knowing their employees were owed salaries,” Wabba reflected.
In 2017, Buhari further demonstrated his commitment to workers by releasing additional bailout funds amounting to billions of naira to assist states in settling outstanding salary and pension debts. “Unfortunately, some governors misappropriated these funds,” Wabba noted with disappointment.
Wabba also highlighted Buhari’s significant involvement in national minimum wage negotiations, stating, “President Buhari was dedicated to enhancing workers’ welfare. During discussions on a new minimum wage, he suggested a figure even higher than the N30,000 that was ultimately agreed upon. Regrettably, the resistance from many state governors hindered a more favorable outcome.”
According to Wabba, one of Buhari’s most crucial pro-poor policies was his unwavering decision to maintain the petrol subsidy, despite significant pressure from international financial institutions. “In the face of intense demands from the IMF and the World Bank, President Buhari stood firm, refusing to raise the price of refined petroleum products beyond the reach of ordinary Nigerians. He chose to stand by the people,” he stated.
Wabba concluded by emphasizing that history will evaluate leaders based on their tangible impacts on the lives of citizens rather than mere words. “President Buhari made a meaningful difference where it was most needed—among workers, pensioners, and the underprivileged,” he added.
In closing his tribute, Wabba offered prayers for the peaceful repose of Buhari’s soul, saying, “We pray that Allah forgives his shortcomings and grants him Aljannah Firdaus. On behalf of myself and my family, I extend heartfelt condolences to the former First Lady, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, their children, the entire Buhari family, and the close associates and friends of the late President.”