Bishop Onaiyekan Praises Buhari’s Final Apology to Nigerians as “Impressive”

Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, has described former President Muhammadu Buhari’s final public message—where he asked Nigerians for forgiveness—as impressive and deeply humbling. The respected Catholic cleric made the remark during an interview with ARISE News, where he commended the former president for taking such a bold and reflective step before his passing. Onaiyekan said it was remarkable that someone of Buhari’s stature, despite holding the nation’s highest office, would acknowledge he may have wronged people and publicly seek their pardon. According to him, such gestures are rare in leadership, especially in the Nigerian context. “It is definitely impressive when someone at his age, with his political legacy and the authority he wielded, would come forward and ask that those whom he has hurt should forgive him,” Onaiyekan stated. Buhari, who led Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, passed away recently after a period of prolonged illness. In his final message to Nigerians, he expressed that he bore no ill will towards anyone and asked for forgiveness from those he may have offended during his time in office. He also maintained that he did his best for the country. Cardinal Onaiyekan noted that Buhari’s parting words carried both spiritual and moral weight, symbolizing humility, responsibility, and a deep understanding of leadership’s human side. “This is the kind of leadership we need more of—one that accepts responsibility and is not afraid to admit imperfections,” Onaiyekan said. As tributes continue to pour in from political, religious, and traditional leaders across Nigeria, Onaiyekan urged current and future officeholders to take a cue from Buhari’s final message by embracing the values of humility, reconciliation, and moral courage.