Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has passed away at the age of 82, his family confirmed on Sunday afternoon.
The announcement was made by Garba Shehu, Buhari’s former Special Adviser, who stated, “The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London.”
Though the official cause of death has not been disclosed, reliable sources indicate that Buhari had been receiving medical treatment in London for several days prior to his death.
Buhari’s leadership left an indelible mark on Nigeria. He served as the country’s democratically elected president from 2015 until 2023 and was previously the military Head of State from January 1984 to August 1985. His long political career was marked by a steadfast anti-corruption stance, efforts to address national security challenges, and a personal reputation for austerity.
National Mourning and Condolences
News of Buhari’s death has sparked nationwide mourning. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Buhari’s successor and political ally, led the tributes. Tinubu personally conveyed his condolences to Buhari’s widow, Aisha Buhari, according to a statement by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga. In an official response, President Tinubu ordered Nigerian flags to fly at half-mast across the country and dispatched Vice President Kashim Shettima to the United Kingdom to oversee the repatriation of Buhari’s remains.
Life and Legacy
Muhammadu Buhari was born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State. Orphaned of his father at a young age, he was raised by his mother and pursued a distinguished military career before transitioning into politics. Buhari enjoyed significant support, particularly in northern Nigeria, due to his image of integrity and discipline.
He married twice first to Safinatu Yusuf from 1971 until her death in 1988, and then to Aisha Halilu in 1989 with whom he had a total of ten children.
After unsuccessful bids for the presidency in 2003, 2007, and 2011, Buhari achieved a historic victory in 2015. Running under the All Progressives Congress (APC), a coalition of opposition forces, he defeated incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan. His win marked Nigeria’s first peaceful transfer of power between political parties since the return to democracy in 1999, ending the 16-year dominance of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Controversies and Criticism
While Buhari was praised for his anti-corruption efforts and personal integrity—famously declaring modest personal assets including farmland, two mud houses, a herd of 270 cows, and approximately $150,000 in savings—his administration faced criticism. Opponents accused him of selectively targeting political adversaries and raised concerns over transparency, especially regarding national security and economic policies.
Health issues also shadowed his presidency. In 2017, Buhari spent over five months in the UK receiving medical treatment for an undisclosed illness. During this period, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo served as acting president. Buhari’s prolonged absence sparked rumors and conspiracy theories, including false claims about his death and replacement by a body double, which the presidency consistently denied.
Retirement and Final Days
After leaving office on May 29, 2023, Buhari retired to Daura, maintaining a minimalist lifestyle. Earlier this year, he remarked at a party caucus meeting, “After my eight years as a civil president, I have only three houses; one in Daura and two in Kaduna. I have given one out for renting, where I get money for feeding.”
In early 2025, he relocated to Kaduna, where he kept a low profile until his passing.
Muhammadu Buhari’s death closes a significant chapter in Nigeria’s political history. Tributes continue to flow from political leaders, international partners, and citizens alike, commemorating a leader defined by his dedication to public service, discipline, and unwavering convictions.
