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Nigeria is in mourning following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away today in a London clinic at the age of 82. The announcement was made by his longtime spokesperson, Garba Shehu, on the former leader’s official X account.
“The family of the former President has announced the passing on of the former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London. May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus, Amin,”
A Life in Service
Buhari distinguished himself as one of only two Nigerian leaders who governed both as a military ruler (1983–1985) and later as a democratically elected president (2015–2023). Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, he rose through the Nigerian Army and seized power in a December 1983 coup. He was deposed in August 1985.
After years in opposition, Buhari achieved a historic electoral victory in 2015, defeating incumbent Goodluck Jonathan — marking the first time an opposition candidate peacefully ousted a sitting Nigerian president . He was re‑elected in 2019 and concluded his second term in May 2023.
Presidency Marked by Controversy and Determination
Buhari’s administration prioritized fighting corruption, improving security, and revamping infrastructure. Public perceptions were mixed: while supporters lauded his integrity and discipline, critics pointed to sluggish economic growth, rising inflation, and persistent regional insecurity . A policy ban on rice imports, aimed at protecting domestic producers, led to soaring food prices and public outcry.
His tenure also witnessed significant unrest, including the mass protests against police brutality (notably #EndSARS) in October 2020, which were met with force.
Persistent concerns over his health marked the latter years of his presidency. Extended medical visits to the UK in 2017–18 led to public speculation about leadership stability.
National Farewell Planned
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu confirmed receiving the news earlier today at approximately 4:30 p.m. GMT+1 and said he has dispatched Vice President Kashim Shettima to London to escort Buhari’s body back home. National mourning protocols, including flag-lowering and registers of condolences, are expected.
A state burial consistent with Buhari’s Muslim faith and national traditions is being arranged.
Tributes from Home and Abroad
Condolences have begun to pour in from political leaders and international figures, acknowledging Buhari’s complex legacy—marked by unwavering anti-corruption symbolism and contentious governance decisions.
Legacy of a Polarizing Figure
Buhari leaves behind his widow, Aisha Buhari, their children, and a nation shaped by his four-decade-long public life . Often described as a disciplined figure, deeply respected in Northern Nigeria, his policies and approach invoked both firm praise and strong criticism .
As Nigeria prepares to lay him to rest, debates over his contributions and shortcomings—particularly regarding economic policy and security—are likely to continue.
