Former President Muhammadu Buhari has extended heartfelt congratulations to his longtime friend and former military coursemate, Major-General Muhammadu Iliyasu Bashar (CFR, mni), following the Supreme Court’s ruling in his favour after a two-decade-long legal contest over the Gwandu Emirate throne.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, Buhari commended the Emir for his perseverance throughout the 20-year legal tussle with the deposed emir, Major Haruna Jokolo (Rtd).
The former president, currently in London, personally conveyed his congratulations to the Emir via a telephone call.
“Former President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated his friend and course mate in the military, Major-General Muhammadu Iliyasu Bashar, CFR, mni who clinched a stunning victory at the Supreme Court following a twenty-year battle for the throne against a deposed emir, Major Haruna Jokolo(Rtd),” the statement read.
Buhari praised the Emir’s dedication to his people despite the legal distractions, urging him to deepen his efforts in fostering unity and development within the Gwandu Emirate and beyond.
“In a telephone call from London where the former president is at the moment, President Buhari expressed his heartiest congratulations to the Emir, urging him to do more to build on the successes and achievements he attained, even as he faced a challenging distraction from the prolonged litigation.”
The former president noted Bashar’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of his community and the nation at large, even amid the prolonged court case.
“You have always worked for the betterment of your people and the nation, even under those circumstances. I hope you will continue to promote peace, happiness, and prosperity of the people in Gwandu Emirate and beyond.”
Buhari concluded his message with prayers for the Emir’s well-being: “I thank Allah for this victory and pray for your long life and good health.”
