Elder statesman and former Inspector-General of Police, IGP, Sir Mike Okiro, said “I have a cherished memory that stands out vividly in my mind,” about late former President Muhammadu Buhari, whom I met while serving the mandatory one year National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, scheme.
This was contained in a press release made available to AljazirahNigeria, as the West African nation observes seven days of national mourning which entered its fourth day on Wednesday.
The statement issued by the former police chief reads in full below:
“It is with profound sadness that I, Sir Mike Okiro, received the news of the passing of former President Buhari. On behalf of myself, I extend my deepest condolences to the Buhari family, the government and people of Nigeria.
“Buhari’s leadership and vision for Nigeria will be remembered for generations to come. His commitment to democracy, stability and progress will forever be etched in the annals of our nation’s history. As a nation, we have lost a leader who worked tirelessly to ensure the security, unity and prosperity of our great country.
“I have a cherished memory that stands out vividly in my mind. During my NYSC days in 1977, when President Buhari was the Military Governor of Borno State, I was among the four youth corps members selected to visit the Government House. What an honour it was to have a handshake with the governor himself! That moment has stayed with me all these years and it is a testament to the impact he had on the lives of Nigerians.”
“As we bid farewell to a leader who had left an indelible mark on our nation’s history, I pray that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Nigerians. May his soul rest in peace and may his memory remind us of the importance of service, dedication and patriotism. May we continue to draw inspiration from his leadership and strive to build a better Nigeria for all.”
Farewell, President Buhari GCFR.
Sincerely,
Sir (Dr.) Mike Mbama Okiro
CFR, NPM, mni
Inspector General of Police (Retd.)
Former Chairman, Police Service Commission
