Jonathan Hails Yar’Adua’s Legacy of Service and Unity 15 Years After Passing
By Usman A Harande
Abuja Nigeria May 5, 2025 – Fifteen years to the day since Nigeria lost President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has issued a poignant tribute, celebrating the life and leadership of his predecessor, whom he described as a “friend, brother, and boss.”
In a statement marking the anniversary of Yar’Adua’s passing on May 5, 2010, Jonathan reflected on their shared vision for a “united, inclusive and a just nation,” painting a portrait of Yar’Adua as a selfless patriot dedicated entirely to public service.
“President Yar’Adua’s life was defined by service and selflessness,” Jonathan stated, highlighting that Yar’Adua’s journey – from teacher to governor and finally to president – was consistently marked by “hard work, patriotism, accountability, commitment to justice and adherence to the rule of law.”
Jonathan, who served as Vice President under Yar’Adua and succeeded him upon his death, emphasized the late President’s focus on national healing and progress. “As President, Yar’Adua carried with him the burden of reconciling our people, fostering unity and mobilising citizens across the land towards building a nation of justice, peace and progress,” he wrote.
Despite the brevity of his time in office, Jonathan underscored its significance, describing Yar’Adua’s tenure as “impactful and progressive.” He remembered it as a period defined by “selfless service and deep commitment to the public good.”
Fifteen years on, Jonathan asserted that President Yar’Adua remains a benchmark for effective governance. “He continues to stand as a reference for good leadership and a legacy of impact, peace and accountability,” the statement read.
Concluding his remembrance, Jonathan celebrated Yar’Adua’s “exemplary and sacrificial life of service,” praising his “genuine efforts in nation building” and his unwavering dedication to establishing an “inclusive democracy anchored on justice, equity and national unity.”
The tribute serves as a powerful reminder of President Yar’Adua’s enduring influence on Nigeria’s political landscape, as recalled by the man who stood alongside him and eventually carried forward the responsibilities of the nation’s highest office.
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