By John Umeh
Nigeria is in mourning following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away at the age of 82. The former military ruler and two-term civilian president died quietly in the early hours of Sunday at his hometown in Daura, Katsina State, surrounded by close family members and aides.
The news of his death was confirmed by a statement from the Presidency, which described Buhari as “a leader who served with uncommon dedication and left an indelible mark on the Nigerian political landscape.”
Born on December 17, 1942, Muhammadu Buhari rose to prominence through the Nigerian military, eventually becoming Head of State after a coup in December 1983. Known for his strict discipline and anti-corruption stance, Buhari governed Nigeria under military rule until he was overthrown in August 1985. He would later return to power democratically in 2015, defeating incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan in a historic election that marked the first time an opposition candidate unseated a sitting president in Nigeria’s history.
A Life of Public Service
Buhari’s legacy is one of paradoxes—admired by some for his austere personal lifestyle and loathed by others for perceived economic mismanagement and authoritarian tendencies. He was a staunch advocate of anti-corruption and national security, often criticized for his government’s handling of human rights issues and press freedoms.
After decades of attempting to return to power through democratic elections, Buhari succeeded on his fourth attempt in 2015 under the All Progressives Congress (APC). His presidency spanned two terms, from 2015 to 2023, during which he tackled a spiraling insurgency in the northeast, negotiated debt relief, and focused on infrastructure development. However, his administration was also marred by rising poverty, inflation, worsening insecurity, and accusations of ethnic bias.
National and Global Reactions
Tributes have begun pouring in from across Nigeria and around the world. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Buhari’s successor, expressed deep sorrow, describing the late leader as “a patriot to the core, a disciplined servant of Nigeria, and a man whose integrity shaped generations of political leaders.”
Former President Goodluck Jonathan said, “Though we disagreed on politics, I respected Buhari’s conviction and unwavering love for Nigeria.”
World leaders, including those from the African Union and ECOWAS, issued condolence statements lauding Buhari’s role in promoting regional stability and his contributions to the fight against corruption in Africa.
Final Days and Burial Plans
Sources close to the Buhari family disclosed that the former president had been battling age-related health issues for months but remained private about his condition. Despite multiple rumors in the past concerning his health, Buhari was often seen at public functions after leaving office and reportedly remained mentally alert until his final days.
In accordance with Islamic rites, preparations are underway for his burial in Daura. A state funeral is expected to follow, with national flags already ordered to fly at half-mast for seven days. The Federal Government has also declared a three-day national mourning period.
A Controversial, Defining Legacy
Love him or loathe him, Buhari’s death marks the end of a complex chapter in Nigeria’s history. He leaves behind a nation still grappling with many of the same challenges he confronted—corruption, insecurity, and disunity—but also a people deeply shaped by his austere leadership style.
His place in Nigeria’s political history is now sealed as one of its most significant figures—one who ruled both with the barrel of a gun and the ballot box.
May his soul rest in peace.
