Leading opposition figures, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi on Sunday turned a blind eye to former President Muhammadu Buhari’s 81st birthday.
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, present-day Katsina State, Buhari clocked 81 today, and many prominent Nigerians have been paying tributes to him.
In a statement, President Bola Tinubu described his predecessor as an “icon of truth, justice, and patriotism”.
“I recall his service to the nation at various times as Head of State and President. His leadership and meritorious service have significantly shaped our nation.
“We recall his unparalleled infrastructural achievements, including new airports, railway lines, seaports, dams, power stations, expressways, mega-bridges, and Nigeria’s first national social investment programme. His dedication to modernizing defence and enhancing food security has been transformative.
“As he celebrates his 81st birthday, I appreciate his friendship and support for my administration. While wishing him longevity and strength, I can assure that the dream of a prosperous, peaceful, and progressive Nigeria will be realised,” Tinubu said.
Atiku and Obi often use their social media platforms, especially X, to celebrate prominent Nigerians marking special occasions, including birthdays.
Some prominent Nigerians that Atiku has celebrated or paid tributes to in recent times include late Chukwuemeka Ezeife – December 16; Victor Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala – December 12; Shehu Yar’Adua – December 9; Gen. T.Y Danjuma (rtd) – December 9; and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan – December 9.
Some prominent Nigerians that Obi has celebrated or paid tributes to in recent times include late Chukwuemeka Ezeife – December 15; Prof. Chika Unigwe – December 14; Aisha Yesufu – December 12; Aliko Dangote – December 11; Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Mo Abudu – December 8.
However, The Herald‘s check of Atiku and Obi’s social media pages showed Buhari was not mentioned on either.