Dikko Radda, the governor of Katsina, stated that former President Buhari referred to President Bola Tinubu as a "strong man" after he removed the petrol subsidy, a decision announced on May 29, 2023, which led to increased living costs and record-high inflation.

“After he completed his tenure, he stayed in Daura, Katsina State, for almost two years,” the governor said.

“We spoke together whenever I visited him. So, with this opportunity, I got to meet him one-on-one and I benefited a lot.

“He once told me, ‘I pity Bola Ahmed Tinubu’. He also told me that ‘Bola Tinubu is a strong man for removing the oil subsidy. I tried to but people said this and that — it never happened — but Bola didn’t need anyone’s opinion. He removed it. If he asked for suggestions and advice, he might not have also removed it.'”

Dikko called Buhari a "president for the poor," a view reflected in his decision to keep the petrol subsidy.

“Here in Katsina state, we lost a strong man. We don’t know how we will get his replacement,” the governor said.

“He was very friendly.

“He always told me: ‘Your excellency, keep doing what you can, but it’s only God that can change Nigeria’.


“He said,‘I suffered, but now I am free. I pity Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he’s doing'”.

In contrast to most of his contemporaries who have consistently vocalised their opinions on political matters and maintained active public profiles, Buhari’s post-presidency was characterised by a reserved lifestyle in Daura, followed by an extended stay at a clinic in London, where he passed away on Sunday after a protracted illness.


ASA