Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari (17 Dec 1942 – 13 Jul 2025) passed away at the age of 82 in London, where he had been receiving medical attention . His death marks the closure of a chapter in Nigeria’s evolving political history one that spanned from military rule to democratic leadership.
From Military Rule to Democratic Breakthrough
• Buhari first came to power on 31 Dec 1983, toppling civilian rule as military head of state a position he held until 27 Aug 1985 .
• A later foray into democracy saw him run unsuccessfully for president in 2003, 2007, and 2011, before clinching victory in 2015. His win was historic not only did it break an eight-year dominance by the People’s Democratic Party, but it also made him the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent ().
A Presidency Framed by Anti‑Corruption, Security, and Economic Trials
Buhari entered office on a pledge to eradicate corruption. His administration pursued graft vigorously with domestic and international backing. The UK and U.S. publicly endorsed his efforts, providing aid for anti-corruption probes .
His tenure was dominated by relentless efforts against Boko Haram, bandits, and herdsmen violence. Though successes were recorded, insecurity remained widespread. At times, critics, including regional leaders, argued that violence outpaced the government’s responses .
Despite bold promises, Buhari’s presidency saw inflation skyrocket to around 22% in early 2023, unemployment surge, and public debt balloon. Analysts and activists cautioned that economic mismanagement would leave a heavy legacy for future administrations .
Divisive Governance and Press Freedom Concerns
• His leadership drew praise and backlash—lauded by supporters as “Maigaskiya” (Truthful One) early on, yet later criticized for fostering division, nepotism, and religious favoritism, especially in northern regions .
• His administration’s suppression of protests (e.g., #EndSARS) and media restrictions raised alarms about eroding democratic values ().
• Internationally, global leaders kept their distance toward the end of his tenure, reflecting a chill in Nigeria’s foreign relations .
• Known for his military bearing, strict time management (“no African time”), and discipline, his people praised him for imparting honesty, humility, and diligence .
• After handing over power peacefully to President Tinubu on 29 May 2023, Buhari retired to Daura, his hometown, maintaining a discreet but active life .
• He remained a vocal elder statesman, offering condolences after tragedies such as soldier ambushes and classroom fires, keeping his voice heard up to 2025.
Buhari leaves behind a nuanced legacy. For many, he symbolizes integrity and an unwavering fight against corruption. For others, he epitomizes the failures of governance marked by economic collapse, rising violence, and stifled freedoms.
✔️ Achievements:
• Historic democratic victory, ending prolonged ruling-party dominance
• International support to crack down on corruption
• Notable gains made in anti‑insurgency operations
❌ Criticisms:
• Persistent insecurity and rampant violence across the country
• Economic decline marked by inflation, unemployment, and fiscal unsustainability
• Decline in civil liberties, press freedoms, and democratic openness
• Allegations of ethnic/religious bias and authoritarian tendencies
Nigeria now stands at a crossroads. While President Buhari reshaped the political landscape, his era also sowed challenges economic distress, debt burdens, and national division. The onus now lies on successors to reconcile his bold ambitions with practical solutions that heal a fractured nation.
Muhammadu Buhari’s journey from military ruler to democratically elected president redefines leadership in modern Nigeria. In death, his legacy bot
h laudable and lamented will undoubtedly shape the nation’s collective memory.
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