The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, remembering him as a leader who evolved into a true advocate for workers and the masses.
NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, described Buhari as a patriotic leader who consistently placed national interest above personal or political gains. In a condolence message issued in Abuja on Monday, Ajaero acknowledged that Buhari’s early rule as a military leader was marked by tough actions against labour unions and widespread retrenchment of workers.
However, he noted that Buhari’s return as a democratic president marked a significant shift. According to him, Buhari ensured that workers were not sacked—even during the economic hardship of the COVID-19 pandemic. He also said the former president regularly approved financial support to state governments to help clear salary and pension backlogs, although some governors misused these funds.
Ajaero praised Buhari for resisting pressures to privatize national refineries or devalue the Naira, despite increasing fuel prices. He said the former president consistently defended worker-friendly policies and avoided harsh market reforms that could harm ordinary Nigerians.
He emphasized that Buhari corrected his past missteps by embracing labour issues in his second tenure, emerging as a strong ally to Nigerian workers and everyday citizens.
The NLC said it was grieving alongside Buhari’s family, friends, and especially his wife, Hajiya Aisha Buhari. Ajaero offered prayers for the late president, asking for divine mercy and eternal peace.
Buhari died on Sunday at a hospital in London. His family confirmed the news through a statement issued by his former spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu. President Bola Tinubu has declared a period of national mourning, ordered flags flown at half-mast, and sent Vice President Kashim Shettima to the United Kingdom to accompany Buhari’s body back to Nigeria.
Buhari served as Nigeria’s president from 2015 to 2023 and previously ruled as military head of state from 1983 to 1985.
