Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, has passed away at the age of 82 in a London clinic, bringing to a close the life of a leader who journeyed from strict military rule to becoming a twice-elected civilian president. His death, confirmed by close aides on Friday, signals the end of an era for one of Africa’s most influential and often polarizing post-independence figures.
A Soldier Turned Statesman
Born in 1942 in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari’s life was steeped in military discipline and conservative values. He rose through Nigeria’s army ranks, trained in the UK, and became a major general by his 30s. In 1983, following a coup, Buhari assumed power as military ruler. His 20-month regime was characterized by an anti-corruption crusade, rigid public order, and sweeping authoritarian decrees.
“He believed discipline was the only way to rebuild Nigeria,” recalled retired Gen. Lawan Musa, a former military colleague. “But not everyone agreed with his methods.”
Ousted in 1985 and imprisoned for over three years, Buhari re-emerged in the 2000s as a democratic contender. After three failed presidential bids, he achieved a historic win in 2015, defeating incumbent Goodluck Jonathan in a landmark election.
A Presidency of Hope and Disillusionment
Buhari’s 2015 campaign rode high on promises of change, integrity, and security values long craved by millions, particularly the poor in Nigeria’s north, where he enjoyed steadfast support. “He was our man,” said Ismail Danyaro from Kano. “We believed he would clean up government and bring peace.”
But his presidency coincided with an economic downturn fueled by plummeting oil prices. The naira depreciated, inflation soared, and staple goods like rice became unaffordable. A 50kg bag that once cost ₦7,500 under Jonathan skyrocketed to ₦60,000.
Attempts to reduce import dependence and curb corruption had mixed results. His ban on rice imports was meant to boost local farming but led to hunger as domestic supply couldn’t meet demand. Efforts to fight graft resulted in high-profile arrests but little systemic reform.
His administration also struggled with insecurity. Boko Haram, though weakened, remained active. A faction aligned with ISIS emerged. Armed banditry and violent clashes between herders and farmers intensified. “Security deteriorated under his watch,” said human rights advocate Nneka Okoro. “And his silence often emboldened the perpetrators.”
Buhari’s critics also cite his poor communication and aloof leadership style. Nicknamed “Baba Go Slow” for his sluggish governance, he once took six months to form a cabinet. He later blamed systemic inefficiency: “It’s not Baba that is slow, it’s the system,” he quipped in 2018.
Controversial Policies and Waning Influence
In his final year in office, Buhari supported a controversial naira redesign policy ostensibly aimed at limiting vote buying ahead of the 2023 elections. But poor implementation led to cash shortages and widespread hardship. Many believed the move was an attempt to undermine Bola Tinubu, the ruling party’s presidential candidate and eventual winner.
Despite his rebranding as a democrat, Buhari never fully shed his military-era traits. He rejected criticism of his authoritarian past, including jailing journalists and political dissidents. His opacity about his health during long absences from office further frustrated Nigerians.
Even his wife, Aisha Buhari, publicly criticized his leadership, threatening to withdraw support for his re-election in 2019.
A Complex Legacy
Buhari leaves behind a legacy both admired and contested. He was praised for personal integrity in a system often rife with corruption, yet his governance style often appeared indifferent to the human cost of his policies.
“To many, Buhari symbolized hope, twice,” noted political analyst Chidi Nwoke. “But history will judge him as a leader who struggled to translate principle into prosperity.”
He is survived by his second wife, Aisha Halilu Buhari, and ten children.
As Nigeria reflects on Buhari’s life and leadership, the nation confronts the enduring challenge of delivering the transformation he once promised, but could not fully achieve.
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