Buhari’s Daughters Thank Nigerians Who Forgave Their Father

As tributes continue to pour in for former President Muhammadu Buhari, his daughters have expressed gratitude to Nigerians who forgave their father, acknowledging the criticisms he faced during his time in office.

Speaking in an emotional interview with BBC Hausa, Aisha Hanan Buhari and Hadiza Muhammadu Buhari said they were deeply touched by the words and prayers of those who had chosen to let go of past grievances.

Hanan, one of Buhari’s younger daughters, described the pain of losing her father as like “losing a part of her body.” She said the thing she would miss most about him was his sense of humour and guidance. “He was part of me. He taught us to pray, study, and find joy in simple things,” she said.

She also thanked Nigerians who forgave him. “We have nothing to say to them except thank you, thank God,” Hanan said, adding that her father meant well for the country and always saw himself as part of the common people.

Hadiza, also known as Nana, is one of Buhari’s elder daughters from a previous marriage. She shared personal memories of their father’s discipline, humility, and deep concern for ethical conduct.

Recalling a childhood moment, she said: “He once gave us money to buy textbooks. I had some change left and used part of it to buy sweets. When I returned, he told me that was wrong — if someone sends you to buy something, you must return the full balance first before taking anything.”

According to Nana, this lesson stuck with her, and reflected his lifelong commitment to integrity. She described him as patient, social, humorous, and firm in character. “He doesn’t like noise, and if you insult him, he won’t retaliate. He just observes.”

Nana also revealed a moment during his treatment in London, when she informed him of her decision to return to Nigeria. His parting words were simple but telling: “Greet Nigerians.”

Muhammadu Buhari died in a UK hospital after a long illness and was buried in Daura, Katsina State. His daughters’ tributes offer a glimpse into the private side of a man known publicly for his rigid discipline and anti-corruption stance.