The death of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, in London at 4:30pm on Sunday has closed a consequential chapter in the nation’s modern history. Announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Buhari’s passing followed a protracted illness that had kept him largely out of public view in recent months. Tinubu, who succeeded him in 2023, directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to London to accompany the body back to Nigeria.
Buhari’s life was a unique mix of military precision and political perseverance. Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari came of age at a time of national transition and military realignment. He would eventually rise from the rank of a young cadet to become one of Nigeria’s most commanding political forces, serving both as a military ruler and democratically elected president.
Military Trajectory and First Taste of Power
Buhari’s military journey began in 1961 when he joined the Nigerian Army. He trained in the UK, India, and the US, and took part in key operations during the Nigerian Civil War. But it was in December 1983, after years of political instability and economic decay, that Buhari became Nigeria’s military Head of State following a coup that ousted President Shehu Shagari.
His 20-month rule as military leader was defined by a strict anti-corruption and “War Against Indiscipline” campaign. While many praised his austere approach to governance, critics described the regime as repressive, pointing to mass arrests of politicians, strict media controls, and decrees that curtailed civil liberties. His military government was later toppled in August 1985 by General Ibrahim Babangida.
A Reluctant Politician, A Persistent Candidate
After years in political wilderness, Buhari returned to national consciousness in the early 2000s, adopting a democratic path to power. He ran unsuccessfully for the presidency in 2003, 2007, and 2011—each time galvanizing a core base of northern and working-class supporters who believed in his anti-corruption ideals.
In 2015, on his fourth attempt and as the candidate of the newly formed All Progressives Congress (APC), Buhari achieved what was once thought impossible—defeating an incumbent president in a Nigerian election. It marked a pivotal moment in the country’s democratic journey.
Presidency: Discipline Meets Democracy
As President from 2015 to 2023, Buhari promised to fight corruption, tackle insecurity, and grow the economy. His administration scored notable wins in infrastructure development—completing major roads, rail projects, and launching the Nigeria Air project. He also introduced social welfare programs such as the N-Power and TraderMoni schemes.
However, his government was also dogged by persistent insecurity, economic woes, rising inflation, unemployment, and allegations of nepotism. The President faced criticism over his frequent medical travels to the UK and perceived slow response to national crises, including the #EndSARS protests of 2020. Despite this, Buhari remained defiant in his posture: “I have done my best for Nigeria.”
Final Years and the Last Journey
Upon handing over power to President Tinubu in May 2023, Buhari retired quietly to Daura. Occasionally spotted receiving visitors or issuing terse statements on national matters, his public appearances became increasingly rare. Insiders disclosed that his health had steadily declined in recent months, leading to his final trip to the UK for medical attention.
His death, though long speculated, still came as a heavy blow to allies and foes alike. President Tinubu, in a sober tone, spoke with the late president’s widow, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, offering condolences and vowing to honour Buhari’s legacy.
Legacy: Mixed, Enduring, Unfinished
Buhari leaves behind a complex legacy. To some, he was a patriot who stood against corruption and held public officers to account. To others, he was an authoritarian whose democratic rule failed to rise above the shadows of his military past.
What remains indisputable is his central role in shaping Nigeria’s post-civil war political identity—first through the barrel of a gun, then through the ballot.
Survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren, Muhammadu Buhari’s journey from the dusty streets of Daura to the helm of Africa’s most populous nation is a story steeped in history, controversy, and a stubborn love for country.
As the nation prepares to receive his body and lay him to rest, history will begin to render its final verdict on one of Nigeria’s most consequential sons.
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