A northern socio-political group, Arewa Think Tank (ATT), has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for honouring the late former President Muhammadu Buhari with a befitting state burial in Daura, Katsina State.

In a statement on Wednesday, the group’s convener, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, described the gesture as a mark of deep respect for Buhari and a clear demonstration of Tinubu’s commitment to national unity.

Yakubu noted that the move has further endeared Tinubu to the North and positioned him to inherit Buhari’s widespread support base in the region.

He expressed confidence that, like Buhari who secured over 12 million votes from the North in the 2019 presidential election, President Tinubu could enjoy similar electoral strength due to the growing trust in his leadership.

According to him, “The befitting state burial was not only a mark of honour for Buhari’s contributions to Nigeria, but also a vote of confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership capacity and his ability to foster unity across the country.”

He urged Nigerians to give President Tinubu the opportunity to deliver on his promises and consolidate on the gains made under Buhari, especially in the areas of economic stability, security, and democratic governance.

“The people of Northern Nigeria appreciate President Tinubu’s thoughtful gesture and will surely reciprocate with their votes in future elections,” Yakubu said.

He added: “Northern voters have always stood by leaders who demonstrate genuine commitment to national development. From what we have seen, President Tinubu is building on the foundations laid by his predecessors and is determined to take Nigeria to greater heights.”

Yakubu noted that the late Buhari would be remembered for his efforts to stabilise the economy, improve security and deepen democracy, stressing that Tinubu’s decision to honour him with a dignified state burial underscored his own statesmanship.

“By granting Buhari this befitting farewell, President Tinubu has shown that he is a leader who respects history, honours the sacrifices of those before him, and is ready to work with all stakeholders to build a better Nigeria,” he said.

The ATT Convener further urged Nigerians across political and regional divides to rally behind President Tinubu and support his administration’s policies aimed at fostering national development and unity.

He concluded by reiterating that the people of the North would stand solidly behind President Tinubu, confident that he would sustain the legacies of past administrations while charting new paths for the nation’s progress. (The Nation)