Femi Adesina Shocks Critics: Buhari Was No Bigot, He Honoured a Church Ceremony in 2013

Femi Adesina, the former media adviser to the late President Muhammadu Buhari, has recounted a powerful personal encounter that, in his view, disproves the long-held belief that the former leader was a religious bigot. Sharing a heartfelt tribute following Buhari’s death at age 82, Adesina recalled how the retired general shocked many by attending a Christian funeral service in Lagos long before becoming Nigeria’s civilian president.

The event took place in August 2013 at the funeral of Adesina’s mother. At the time, Buhari was a divisive political figure frequently accused of harboring intentions to Islamize Nigeria. Despite the intense criticism and public perception, Buhari not only accepted Adesina’s invitation but also stayed through the entire Christian ceremony — a move that deeply surprised the media aide and others present.

Adesina described the moment as deeply revealing, stating that it significantly raised his personal respect for Buhari and contradicted the notion that the former president was intolerant of other faiths. “Bigot? That’s the man they say never wants to hear about any other religion, except Islam,” Adesina wrote, recounting how Buhari’s quiet presence at the funeral challenged narratives that had long trailed his public life.

Throughout his presidency, Buhari faced numerous allegations of religious favoritism, especially in his appointments and policies. Yet, Adesina’s reflection, as highlighted by iReporter Online, paints a more complex picture of the former leader — one that defies simplistic labels and underscores his often-overlooked moments of religious openness.

Buhari passed away in London on July 13, 2025, and his legacy continues to ignite debate. For Adesina, however, the 2013 funeral remains an unforgettable testament to a side of Buhari many never saw.