AGF Fagbemi pays tribute to late Buhari, hails his legal, economic legacy

Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, commending his immense contributions to Nigeria’s legal system and national development.

In a statement released on Monday, Fagbemi described Buhari’s passing as the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s political and moral history. He praised the former president for his unwavering commitment to justice, legal reforms, and national sovereignty.

“President Buhari’s legacy is one of resilience and reform. He demonstrated unmatched resolve in defending Nigeria’s interests on the global stage,” Fagbemi said.

The Justice Minister particularly highlighted Buhari’s pivotal role in shielding Nigeria from high-stakes legal and financial threats, notably the $11 billion Process and Industrial Developments (P&ID) arbitration case and the decades-long Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project dispute.

The statement reads: “I join His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu and all people of goodwill across our nation and beyond in mourning this profound national loss.

“The passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, marks the end of an era in Nigeria’s political and moral history.

“He will be remembered with profound respect for his unwavering dedication to God and country — a man of austere values, gentle strength, unyielding integrity, and a life defined by principled service in the quest for national transformation.

“As President, the late Muhammadu Buhari made significant strides in strengthening the administration of justice and advancing law reform.

“His tenure witnessed the enactment of landmark statutes, bold policy initiatives, and far-reaching institutional reforms.

“These included the moderniswation of correctional services, policing, anti-money laundering frameworks, asset recovery systems, federalism through the devolution of powers, electoral reform and the deepening of good governance.

“It was under the leadership of former President Muhammadu Buhari that Nigeria initiated the successful challenge to the $11 billion P&ID arbitral award.

“That bold and strategic effort was steadfastly carried forward by President Bola Tinubu, ultimately enabling our nation to avert a crippling financial burden.

“Even in retirement, his unwavering sense of duty to the nation never diminished.

“I vividly recall visiting him in both London and Daura when his support was once again sought to help Nigeria confront another predatory claim — this time concerning the Mambila Hydroelectric Power Project.

“Despite the demands of age and the comfort of private life, former President Buhari selflessly agreed to serve as a witness.

“In January 2025, he travelled to Paris and stood before the tribunal, bearing testimony for the country he loved with rare and steadfast conviction.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to His Excellency President Tinubu, to the former First Lady, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, and to the family, friends and close associates of our dearly departed leader.

“Nigeria has lost a titan of principle and purpose. May his soul find eternal rest.”