Buhari: I Fled Home to Join Army Due to Pressure to Get Married

President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday disclosed that he escaped from his home in Daura shortly after secondary education to join the Nigerian Army due to family pressure on him to get married then.

The President also declared that God has been very kind to him having fought and survived many battles in the past.

Buhari, who spoke at the palace of the Emir of Daura in Katsina State after inaugurating two roads in the town, returned all thanks to God for safety in his life’s journey over many years.

He highlighted the years of battle during the Nigerian civil war and some personal challenges as testimonies of divine protection and guidance.

According to him, the destiny of man, country and the world remains in the hands of God

He said: “This opportunity to serve the nation comes from God. All over the world, Nigeria is known for its diversity, with different religions and cultures.

“We are also known because we have a huge population of millions of people.”

President Buhari said he secured his first job early after school to manage a co-operative in Daura, but had to escape and join the army when there was pressure that he should get married.

“I told Governor Aminu Bello Masari the story of how I left Daura to join the army. That was how God planned it. We make choices in life, but eventually destiny is before God.

“I was at the war front during the civil war, and saw how many died. Some fell right beside me. God kept me.

“Many bridges were blown just before we arrived at some places, and after we crossed. I arrived at some places to see bodies of my own colleagues that we were fighting together. I am alive today only by God’s grace.”

The President noted that the Daura Emirate and community gained international recognition by divine purpose, not man’s efforts.

“For the President of Nigeria, at this time, to come from Daura is the grace and mercy of God.”

President Buhari assured the Emirate that he would return and settle down in Daura, after handing over on May 29, 2023.

“The Emir has spoken extensively and I don’t have much to add. I have three of my classmates that are here today in the Emirate Council.  

“I also hear of how the Emir has been giving recognitions and titles to my staff and family members. I am grateful for all the support,” he stated.

In his speech, the Emir of Daura noted that the survival of the President when his car was bombed in 2014 was a divine act, which happened shortly before he won elections in 2015.

According to him: “The visit of the President is historic. He was invited by the Governor to inspect and commission development projects.

“The Governor has performed exceedingly well, beyond the projects that had been spotlighted. Close to seven years, he has been working for the people and he has made a big impact.

“Governor Masari is not a thief. The governor has done his best with available resources. He has showcased his record of service by inviting the President to witness progress in the state.

“The President has seen a lot in two days, but he has not seen all. We know the good works of the governor and really commend him.”

The Emir thanked the President for the federal government’s projects in the state, and extoled the governor for creating an enabling environment for many to thrive.

“As a state, Katsina benefitted a lot from your position, Mr President, and the Daura community remains grateful for all. For a long time, we will be talking about the blessings of God in our domain,” he added.

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

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