Muhammadu Buhari, former president of Nigeria, a figure synonymous with anti-corruption efforts and military discipline, died on 13 July 2025 in London.
Nigeria is currently experiencing a deep period of national mourning and for seven days, President Bola Tinubu has mandated that flags be flown at half-mast.
Buhari’s death marks the end of an important chapter for Africa’s most populous country.
He leaves behind a legacy, characterised by both heroic service and difficult obstacles.
A SOLDIER’S ASCENSION TO A PRESIDENT
Muhammadu Buhari was born in Daura, in Northern Nigeria’s Katsina State, in December 1942.
Buhari enrolled in the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna in 1962 at age 20, approximately two years after Nigeria gained independence from Britain on 1 October 1960.
Buhari ascended to prominence in 1983, assuming the role of Nigeria’s military head of state following a coup that resulted in the ousting of President Shehu Shagari.
During this period, the “War Against Indiscipline” policy aimed to promote a thorough reorientation of social norms.
The government implemented stringent measures to combat corruption and maintain discipline.
From January 1984 to August 1985, his military rule was characterised by a firm stance against corruption.
In 1985, General Ibrahim Babangida executed a coup d’état, resulting in the ousting of Buhari. Subsequent to this, Buhari encountered a phase of confinement.
Despite his prior military command, he subsequently embarked on a career in democratic governance.
His ascension to power was a protracted and challenging endeavour.
THE PRESIDENCY RACE
After three unsuccessful attempts to become president, Buhari finally achieved a significant victory in the 2015 election, beating then-incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan for the first time.
During his campaign, Buhari declared his commitment to addressing the pressing issues of corruption, insecurity and the economy in the country.
After taking office, Buhari’s administration had to deal with several issues, chief among them being the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast.
His administration made key gains against Boko Haram from 2015 to 2023, but faced new security threats.
Recessions and high rates of inflation have plagued the economy, partly due to the decline in oil prices.
To consolidate government revenue, the administration implemented several policies, with the Treasury Single Account being the most notable.
A LEGACY OF INTEGRITY
Buhari’s unwavering personal integrity has always distinguished his public persona.
Many Nigerians were impressed by Buhari’s apparent honesty in a political climate often characterised by corruption.
His administration faced criticism for human rights violations, especially concerning the 2020 End of Special Anti-Robbery Squad demonstrations.
The administration’s approach to various issues, including the tensions between agriculturalists and pastoralists and the need for economic diversification, has sparked significant discourse.
Given these obstacles, his supporters claimed that he made a sincere effort to further Nigeria’s development. Many individuals perceived him as a steadfast patriot.
CRITICS SLAM ANTI-CORRUPTION CAMPAIGN
Buhari’s anti-corruption campaign faced opposition from several industries.
Atiku Abubakar and other opposition figures have accused him of shielding dishonest associates.
Legal experts, including senior advocate of Nigeria Olisa Agbakoba, described the campaign as politically motivated and discriminatory.
Bishop Matthew Kukah was among the religious leaders who criticised the government for using anti-corruption initiatives as tools for political manipulation.
Watchdog groups such as Transparency International and the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project criticised the administration for failing to pursue its close associates.
FINAL JOURNEY: THE CAUSE OF DEATH
Buhari passed away at the age of 82 following a lengthy illness, according to Bayo Onanuga, the spokesperson for President Tinubu.
Details of his illness were not disclosed, but it is known that he had been receiving medical treatment in London for a few days prior to his death.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima will accompany Buhari’s body back to Nigeria, and the governor of Katsina State, Dikko Umaru Radda, announced that Buhari’s remains would arrive in Katsina on 15 July 2025, for burial in his hometown of Daura.
WHAT WILL BUHARI’S ENDURING LEGACY BE IN NIGERIA’S HISTORY?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11.
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