Crystabel Ukwuegbu
A Storied Career: Military Ruler to Democratic Leader.
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari joined the Nigerian Army in 1961 and rose through the ranks during the civil war. He first came to power as Head of State following a coup in 1983, but was deposed in 1985.
He re-entered politics after Nigeria returned to democracy, and in 2015 became the first opposition candidate ever to defeat a sitting president—Goodluck Jonathan. Re‑elected in 2019, he served until 2023 under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
- Final Days and Reaction
- According to Al Jazeera, Buhari passed away at roughly 4:30 pm (15:30 GMT) in a clinic in London. President Bola Tinubu’s office later ordered that flags be lowered to half‑mast and assigned Vice President Kashim Shettima to accompany Buhari’s body home to Nigeria.
Legacy: Mixed Record, Lasting Impact
Achievements:
Known widely for his anti-corruption campaign, symbolised by the broom logo that swept into power in 2015.
The Washington Post
Credited with some military gains against Boko Haram, including the release of Chibok schoolgirls and reclaiming territory.
The economy faltered under his leadership, with two recessions and soaring inflation tied to collapsing oil prices and exchange rate policies.
His administration drew widespread criticism for the violent suppression of #EndSARS protests in October 2020, which saw security forces fire on unarmed protesters, killing at least 12.
A social media ban, frequently cited selective justice, and a polarising authoritarian streak troubled civil society and the press.
Frequent medical trips abroad, particularly to the UK, fueled unease and rumors during his presidency.
Many Nigerians remember Buhari as a figure of discipline, restraint, and integrity—especially those in the North. Others recall deepened inequality, protest suppression, and economic hardship as defining features of his tenure. In the words of a political analyst from Lagos, Buhari came into power with unmatched public support — but over time, that trust slowly slipped through his fingers.
Looking Ahead
As his body is returned to Nigeria for Muslim funeral rites in his home state of Katsina, the nation reflects on a leader whose life bridged military rule and democratic governance. From the heights of hope in 2015 to disillusionment by 2023, Buhari’s tenure reshaped Nigeria’s political narrative and left behind a nation still wrestling with his legacy.
Summary Table
- Details Description
- Date of Death : July 13, 2025
- Location : London Clinic, UK
- Age: 82 years old
- Tenure : Head of State (1983–85), President : (2015–2023)
- Major Challenges : Economic recession, security crisis, civil rights issues
- Legacy : Anti-corruption image vs selective governance.
May his soul rest in peace.
With Buhari’s passing, Nigeria turns the page on a political era that sparked hope, stirred strong opinions, and left behind a trail of lessons the nation won’t soon forget.
