Fifteen years after the passing of Nigeria’s former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, the nation’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and key political figures, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, have paid glowing tributes to the late leader, describing him as a patriot and servant leader committed to national unity and peace.
President Yar’Adua, who died on May 5, 2010, at the age of 58, is fondly remembered for his calm demeanor, democratic values, and far-reaching policies that shaped the path of Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement, former President Goodluck Jonathan, who succeeded Yar’Adua, said:
“Fifteen years ago, our nation lost one patriot. A servant leader, whom I shared a common vision with, for a united, inclusive, and a just nation.”
The PDP also echoed similar sentiments in its tribute, highlighting Yar’Adua’s enduring contributions to electoral reform and conflict resolution in the Niger Delta region.
“His commitment to Nigeria’s unity, electoral reform, and peace in the Niger Delta remains his lasting legacy,” the party stated.
President Yar’Adua’s short but impactful tenure between 2007 and 2010 is often praised for initiating the Amnesty Programme which brought relative peace to the Niger Delta, as well as for his open declaration of assets—a rare act of transparency in Nigeria’s political landscape.
As tributes continue to pour in, many Nigerians remember Yar’Adua as one of the few leaders who led with humility, sincerity, and a deep sense of duty.
