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Femi Adesina, the former presidential media spokesperson, has shared insights into why the late former President Muhammadu Buhari was referred to as “Mai Gaskiya,” meaning the honest one, by many Northerners.
Adesina revealed that Buhari refrained from misappropriating public funds, despite holding numerous high-profile positions throughout his life.
He made these comments in a detailed article commemorating Buhari’s 83rd posthumous birthday.
Adesina mentioned that Buhari would have turned 83 years old on December 17, 2025, but he passed away five months earlier on July 13, 2025.
Additionally, Adesina recounted a conversation with Mele Kyari, the former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, who corroborated Buhari’s integrity.
“On the day the Petroleum Industry Bill was signed into law, I was speaking with the then Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Mele Kyari. He expressed that he had never encountered anyone quite like Buhari.
“He never sent a message through anyone requesting favors or money. An extraordinary individual.” Many heads of agencies and parastatals under his leadership share similar sentiments.
“That was his character throughout his life. He would never misuse public funds, regardless of the positions he held. It’s no surprise that the average Northerner referred to him as Mai Gaskiya (the honest one). He was excessively frugal and simply incorruptible,” he stated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Buhari called "Mai Gaskiya"?
Buhari was referred to as "Mai Gaskiya," meaning the honest one, due to his reputation for not misappropriating public funds during his time in office.
What did Femi Adesina say about Buhari's character?
Femi Adesina highlighted that Buhari was known for his integrity and frugality, stating that he never requested favors or misused public funds throughout his life.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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