Tinubu Leads Minute Silence for Buhari, Others at APC Convention

Tinubu Leads Minute Silence for Buhari, Others at APC Convention

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday led members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in observing a minute’s silence in honour of former President Muhammadu Buhari and other late party leaders.

The tribute formed a solemn moment at the party’s 4th Elective National Convention held in Abuja.

Tinubu urged delegates to rise in honour of Buhari, describing him as the party’s first elected president and a central figure in its history.

“Let us stand and observe a moment of silence in memory of our first leader,” he said, extending the tribute to other founding members of the party who have passed on.

Muhammadu Buhari died on July 13, 2025, in London at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness. He was buried in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, with full state honours.

Buhari played a major role in the formation and growth of the APC. He was among the key opposition figures whose political strength helped shape the merger that led to the creation of the party in 2013.

His victory in the 2015 presidential election under the APC marked a turning point in Nigeria’s history, as he became the first opposition candidate to defeat a sitting president.

He went on to serve two terms as president from 2015 to 2023, after earlier leading Nigeria as military head of state between 1983 and 1985.

Reflecting on the party’s journey, Tinubu said the sacrifices of Buhari and other founding members must not be forgotten, stressing the need to preserve and deepen their vision.

“This convention is not just a gathering. It is a defining moment for our party and our democracy,” he said.

He also warned against internal divisions, noting that unity remains the party’s greatest strength.

“Our party was not built for selfish interests. We must remain focused on the collective good,” the president added.

Tinubu said the APC must continue to stand as a platform for national development, not just electoral victories, while urging members to remain disciplined and committed.

The convention attracted party leaders, governors and delegates from across the country, as the APC continues efforts to strengthen its structure ahead of future political contests.