Daura, Katsina State July 16, 2025
Bashir Ahmad, former media aide to the late President Muhammadu Buhari, has publicly commended Peter Obi for visiting Daura to pay condolences to Buhari’s family following the former president’s death on July 13 at age 82.
Sharing photos of the visit on X (formerly Twitter), Bashir Ahmad wrote:
“We sincerely appreciate Mr. @PeterObi for finding time to visit Daura to condole with the family of former President Muhammadu Buhari. He also extended his heartfelt condolences to us. We wish him a safe journey back home.”
The images, posted at 1:27 PM UTC, show Obi warmly engaging with dignitaries in Daura. Obi, who was the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, was unable to attend Buhari’s burial on Tuesday due to flight challenges. However, he made the journey a day later, joining figures such as Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio at a prayer session in Daura.
Obi was accompanied by Senators Ireti Kingibe, Okey Ezea, and Obidient Movement National Coordinator Dr. Tanko Yunusa. In a statement, Obi explained:
“It was difficult for me to get to Daura yesterday. There was no flight. Anyone who comes even tomorrow is still part of the mourning.”
Bashir Ahmad’s acknowledgment of Obi’s gesture is notable given his previous criticism of opposition figures and his strong ties to the All Progressives Congress (APC). His commendation highlights a rare moment of political unity at a time of national mourning.
Online reactions to Ahmad’s post have been mixed. Some praised the show of respect, while others pointed to past political tensions between Ahmad and Obi. Regardless, Obi’s visit and Ahmad’s warm reception have sparked conversations about political maturity and reconciliation ahead of the 2027 elections.
As Nigeria reflects on Buhari’s legacy and looks toward its political future, gestures like Obi’s visit—and Ahmad’s response—underscore the enduring power of humanity over partisanship.
News House will continue to monitor developments as they unfold.