Notwithstanding the caustic criticism he gets from his ex-fellow in the CNPP back in the days, President Muhammadu Buhari has described Balarabe Musa, the old Kaduna governor, as a “man of unassailable integrity and untainted record of public service.”
In his tribute to Musa celebrating his 81st birthday, Buhari said “even Musa’s worst enemies and critics cannot dispute his remarkable reputation for integrity and selfless service to the people.”
“Balarabe Musa is one of Nigeria’s brightest stars of integrity and sterling principles”, adding that, “the octogenarian has lived to his reputation by avoiding any conduct associated with corruption and dishonour,” said Buhari.
According to him, he was able to appreciate Musa’s radical patriotism and commitment to strong opposition better when they were together in the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties.
Buhari also noted Musa’s independent-mindedness, and the fact that he can criticise even his friends, associates and allies when it comes to politics.
President Buhari urged other politicians and younger citizens in particular to emulate Mr. Musa’s virtuous life of integrity, selflessness and patriotism in order to make Nigeria achieve progress.
The president said politics is public service and not an opportunity to amass wealth overnight at the expense of the ordinary people or the voters.
He prayed that God will continue to bless the elder statesman with better health, more wisdom and longer life in the service of the country.