Eedris Abdulkareem tells Nigerian leaders to show empathy while alive after Buhari’s death sparked mixed reactions and Shehu Sani’s forgiveness plea.
Nigerian veteran rapper and activist, Eedris Abdulkareem, has called on political leaders to embrace empathy during their lifetime rather than expect sympathy in death.
Also read: Eedris Abdulkareem criticizes President Tinubu’s administration in new song (Video)
His remarks came shortly after the passing of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday at the age of 82.
The news of his death sparked a wave of mixed reactions across the country, reflecting deep divisions over his legacy.
In response to the wave of commentary, former senator and social commentator, Shehu Sani, issued a plea for forgiveness and respect for the dead.
“A living man is still on trial and cannot judge the dead. Let the sleeping soul rest,” he wrote in a post that went viral.
However, Eedris Abdulkareem took a more critical stance, responding through his verified Instagram page on Monday.
He reminded leaders that sympathy in death is earned through acts of compassion and integrity during one’s lifetime.
“If you want sympathy in death, then you must show empathy when alive. Your legacies after life are consequences of your deeds. Innalilahi wa innalilahi rajuhun,” he wrote.
If you want sympathy in death, then you must show empathy when alive. Your legacies after life are consequences of your deeds.
The rapper’s statement quickly resonated with many Nigerians, especially those who have long criticised leadership failures in governance, accountability, and human rights protection during Buhari’s administration.
Eedris Abdulkareem, known for his politically conscious lyrics and fearless commentary, has consistently used his platform to challenge the status quo.
He rose to prominence in the early 2000s with songs that tackled issues ranging from corruption to youth marginalisation.
His message remains consistent — that leaders must serve the people with sincerity and conscience.
The conversation around the late president’s legacy remains polarised.
While some Nigerians have offered condolences and highlighted his contributions to national development, others have revisited allegations of human rights abuses, economic mismanagement, and worsening insecurity under his tenure.
One social media user remarked, “We won’t pretend things were okay. We lived through the hardship. Sympathy is earned, not demanded.”
Another user added, “This is a wake-up call for all leaders. Your actions follow you, even in death.”
Abdulkareem’s position echoes a growing sentiment among Nigerian youth, who have become increasingly vocal about demanding ethical leadership and transparent governance.
Analysts say his statement serves as a reminder to current and aspiring leaders that legacy is not built through rhetoric but through actions that uplift citizens.
Speaking to a local radio station earlier this year, the rapper said: “The people are watching. They know who fought for them and who used them. Posterity never forgets.”
His consistent advocacy underscores a broader cultural shift in Nigeria where entertainers and creatives are becoming key voices in sociopolitical discourse.
The singer’s call for empathy also aligns with teachings from multiple faith traditions in Nigeria, which emphasise compassion, justice, and service.
It is a call that resonates not just in political spaces, but within families, communities, and organisations across the country.
Also read: Buhari’s national mourning holiday declared as Nigeria bids farewell
As tributes and reflections continue following Buhari’s passing, Eedris Abdulkareem’s poignant message has ignited deeper conversations about leadership, accountability, and the true meaning of legacy in public life.
Ibrahim Onipede is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
