Muhammadu Buhari, the only Nigerian leader to serve both as a military ruler and a democratically elected president, has died at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness. His passing on Sunday in a London clinic was confirmed by the Nigerian presidency, closing a chapter on one of the most consequential political lives in the country’s modern history.
Nigeria is mourning a giant of its political history. Muhammadu Buhari, the soldier-turned-statesman who once seized power in uniform and later earned it through the ballot box, has passed on at 82.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a three-day period of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast. In a tribute, Tinubu described Buhari’s death as “the end of an era that deeply shaped Nigeria’s past and inspired debates about its future.”
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari entered public life through the military ranks. In December 1983, he overthrew the civilian government of President Shehu Shagari, citing corruption and economic mismanagement. His 20-month rule was marked by a tough stance on indiscipline and economic austerity but also criticized for suppressing press freedom and political dissent.
Overthrown in 1985 by General Ibrahim Babangida, Buhari stepped out of the spotlight briefly but returned in the 1990s as Chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund under the Abacha regime, earning respect for transparency and efficiency.
Buhari’s resilience defined his later years. After three failed presidential attempts, he made history in 2015 by defeating an incumbent—becoming the first opposition candidate to win Nigeria’s presidency. He was re-elected in 2019 and served until 2023.
His civilian presidency prioritized anti-corruption, infrastructure development, and internal security. Under his leadership, Nigeria launched major infrastructure projects including the Second Niger Bridge and nationwide rail and airport upgrades. However, his administration also faced rising insecurity in parts of the country, economic hardship, and criticism for curtailing civil liberties and press freedom.
Though polarizing, Buhari’s legacy includes his personal integrity, frugal lifestyle, and unwavering commitment to public service—traits that remained intact even as his presidency drew mixed reviews.
Following his retirement in May 2023, Buhari returned to Daura, choosing a quiet life and rarely engaging in political matters. In recent months, rumors of deteriorating health circulated quietly until his death was confirmed.
Muhammadu Buhari’s life traced the contours of Nigeria’s post-independence journey: from military coups to democratic governance, from order to contested freedoms. Revered by some, criticized by others, his legacy is etched into Nigeria’s national story—one of strength, contradictions, and enduring influence.
As the nation lays its former leader to rest, it also reflects on the ideals he embodied and the challenges he never fully overcame.
