Mixed reactions have trailed the demise of former President Muhammadu Buhari after he was laid to rest in Daura, his hometown in Katsina State on Tuesday.
A correspondent from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), who went round Jos Metropolis on Tuesday, reports that while many expressed sadness over the death, some, however, said it was an inevitable end for the late president.
Mrs Ene Pam, a retired teacher, who said she was saddened by the president’s death, said Buhari meant well but was overwhelmed and lost control over his cabinet.
“He tried to fight corruption but was undermined; he was a good man, may his soul rest in peace,” Pam said.
Kate Danjuma, a housewife, said Buhari was disciplined but slow to act, corroborating Pam that he also meant well, but his team failed him.
John Adeyinka, a youth corps member, acknowledged benefiting from the N-Power programme of Buhari’sadministration, but said insecurity was worse during his time.
“It was unfortunate because many innocent Nigerians died under Buhari’s watch,” Adeyinka said.
Mr Philip Chidi, a trader at Terminus Market, reacted indifferently, saying he was just a former president like the other past presidents.
“The poor still suffered under him like others, so for me, nothing changed during his time,” said Chidi.
Ibrahim Tanko, a commercial driver, told NAN he was not surprised, saying the former president had always been unwell but held on to power unnecessarily.
“You will agree with me that Nigeria is a big country and needs a very healthy person to lead.
“This country’s troubles can also affect one’s health,” Tanko said.
On her part, Amina Yakubu, a food vendor, decried the serious hunger just a few months after Buhari took over in 2015 because farmers could not go to their farms for fear of being killed by attackers.
Gloria Dung, a university student, however, prayed for comfort for Buhari’s family and the repose of his soul.
“No matter what, he was our president, May his soul rest in peace,” Dung said quietly.
NAN reports that some residents mourned, some prayed and sympathised with the family, while others mocked as Jos remained divided on the late president’s legacy. (NAN)