Former President Goodluck Jonathan has paid glowing tribute to his late predecessor, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, describing him as a “servant leader” and the “Gentleman President” on the 16th anniversary of his death.
- +Yar’adua was a servant leader, gentleman president – Jonathan
In a statement shared on Tuesday, Jonathan reflected on their time in office, noting that Yar’Adua embodied humility, integrity and an unwavering commitment to justice.
In a statement shared on Tuesday, Jonathan reflected on their time in office, noting that Yar’Adua embodied humility, integrity and an unwavering commitment to justice.
He recalled their partnership as one rooted in a shared vision of building an inclusive, united and law-abiding nation, stressing that the late leader believed strongly in the sanctity of the ballot and the rule of law.
Jonathan was elected vice president on a joint ticket with Yar’adua in 2007. But Yar’adua later died in 2010, paving the way for him to become president.
Jonathan described Yar’Adua as a leader who consistently placed national interest above personal ambition, adding that his calm disposition and principled leadership set him apart.
He also highlighted the late president’s legacy in peace-building, particularly his efforts to stabilise the Niger Delta, which he said remained a reference point for governance.
Urging current leaders to emulate Yar’Adua’s values, Jonathan emphasised that leadership must be anchored on accountability, transparency and genuine service to the people.
Yar’Adua, who assumed office in 2007, died in 2010, after a prolonged illness, leaving behind a legacy defined by reform-driven governance and respect for democratic ideals.
