{"id":120608,"date":"2025-07-14T07:04:28","date_gmt":"2025-07-14T06:04:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pointblanknews.com\/pbn\/?p=120608"},"modified":"2025-07-14T07:04:28","modified_gmt":"2025-07-14T06:04:28","slug":"ecowas-mourns-buhari-salutes-legacy-of-democracy-in-africa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pointblanknews.com\/pbn\/news\/ecowas-mourns-buhari-salutes-legacy-of-democracy-in-africa\/","title":{"rendered":"ECOWAS Mourns Buhari, Salutes Legacy of Democracy in Africa"},"content":{"rendered":"
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By Lizzy Chirkpi<\/div>\n
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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria\u2019s former President, General Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd), who died peacefully in the early hours of Saturday, July 12, 2025, in an hospital in the United Kingdom.<\/div>\n
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He was 82.<\/div>\n
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A retired military general and two-time leader of Nigeria first military head of state in the 1980s and later as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023.\u00a0 Buhari’s death marks the end of an era for one of Africa’s most prominent political figures.<\/div>\n
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In a heartfelt condolence message issued on Sunday, ECOWAS, through its Commission President, H.E. Dr Omar Alieu Touray, paid glowing tribute to Buhari\u2019s immense contributions to democracy and regional cooperation in West Africa and beyond.<\/div>\n
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\u201cIt is with deep sorrow that the world learnt of the passing of His Excellency General Muhammadu BUHARI, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,\u201d the ECOWAS statement began.<\/div>\n
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Speaking on behalf of all ECOWAS institutions, Dr Touray extended the Commission\u2019s condolences to Buhari\u2019s family, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Government of Nigeria, and the entire Nigerian people.<\/div>\n
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\u201cECOWAS salutes the memory of this distinguished statesman whose invaluable contributions greatly advanced democracy and regional integration in West Africa and across the African continent,\u201d the message read.<\/div>\n
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The statement, dated July 13 and released from Abuja, emphasized Buhari\u2019s enduring legacy and unwavering commitment to national development and continental unity.<\/div>\n
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Buhari, who was widely known for his anti-corruption stance and discipline, was a central figure in Nigeria\u2019s modern political history. Under his leadership, Nigeria witnessed significant infrastructure expansion, improved public sector accountability, and a strengthened role in regional peacekeeping efforts.<\/div>\n
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After his presidency, Buhari had maintained a quiet life, making occasional public appearances and offering commentary on national issues. His health had reportedly deteriorated in recent months, though his family had kept details private.<\/div>\n
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As the continent mourns, ECOWAS concluded its tribute with a solemn prayer:<\/div>\n
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\u201cMay his soul rest in paradise.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the Presidency in the coming days<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n