Gambian President Barrow Pays Condolence Visit To Katsina Over Buhari’s Passing

By; SULAIMAN AHMED MISAU, Katsina

President of The Republic of Gambia, Mr Adama Barrow was in Katsina State to extend condolences to family of the late President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura.

Accompanied by his wife, Fatoumata Bah-Barrow, the Gambian President Adama Barrow by Secretary to the Government of Katsina State, Barrister Abdullahi Garba Faskari and top Government officials on arrival at Umaru Musa Yar’adua International Airport, Katsina.

After brief inspection of the Guard of Honour by military personnel at the airport, President Barrow proceeded to Daura to personally condole the Buhari’s family and the Emir of Daura,
Alhaji Umar Faruq Umar.

At the late President’s residence in Daura, according to a statement by Chief Press Secretary to Katsina State Governor, Mohammed Kaula, the Gambian leader was warmly received by Buhari’s eldest son, Yusuf Buhari; his brother, Hajiya A’isha Buhari; District Head of Dumurkol, Alhaji Musa Haro and Sabiu ‘Tunde’ Yusuf with other family members.

Speaking at the late President Buhari’s residence in Daura President Barrow described the death of Muhammadu Buhari as a personal and continental loss. stressing that, the late Nigerian leader was not just a statesman, but a symbol of integrity and African unity.

The Gambian President further explained that, “President Buhari was a great leader, a brother, and a friend to me. he was widely respected across Africa and When I heard of his passing, I felt it wasn’t enough to send a message I had to come here in person to mourn with his family and the people of Nigeria.”

President Adama Barrow emphasised that, late President Buhari played a critical role in promoting democracy in Africa particularly during The Gambia’s own political transition. recalling on how Buhari stood firmly in defense of the democratic will of the Gambian people during a tense political impasse in 2016.

President Barrow reiterated that, “Buhari stood for justice, he helped protect the democratic wishes of Gambians, and his support during our most difficult time will never be forgotten. His words to me during a private meeting in Mali, just before I assumed office, were very clear that, sovereignty belongs to the people. those words have guided me ever since.”

President Adama Barrow urged Nigerians to take solace in the legacy Buhari left behind a legacy of discipline, courage, and leadership in service to the people. adding that, “President Buhari’s passing is painful but as Muslims, we accept Allah’s will. I offer my condolences on behalf of myself, my family, and the entire people of The Gambia to the Buhari family and to all Nigerians.”

Responding on behalf of the family, the Son of the late President, Yusuf Buhari expressed gratitude to President Barrow for the visit, noting that the presence of the Gambian leader was deeply reassuring.

Yusuf Buhari said , “Your visit today has touched our hearts, hearing your reflections about our father has strengthened us. he always taught us never to take what doesn’t belong to us, and to lead with honesty and humility. We thank you for honouring him.”

President Barrow was accompanied to Daura by the Secretary to the Katsina State Government, Barrister Abdullahi Garba Faskari, with other members of the State Executive Council in attendance.