Nigeria’s former president and military ruler Muhammadu Buhari has died at the age of 82 while receiving treatment at a clinic in London, according to his former aide Garba Shehu.
Buhari, who left office in 2023 after completing two democratic terms, holds a unique place in Nigeria’s political history. He became the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent president at the ballot box in 2015, unseating Goodluck Jonathan.
Buhari first came to power as a military leader in 1983 following a coup, launching a strict “War Against Indiscipline” that targeted corruption and dissent. However, he was ousted after just 20 months in another military coup.
He later returned to power through democratic means, campaigning as a reformed “converted democrat.” His presidency was marked by efforts to tackle corruption, fight Boko Haram insurgents, and manage Nigeria’s struggling economy.
Despite high hopes, his administration faced heavy criticism for failing to effectively combat corruption, insecurity, and economic hardship. Buhari’s rule was also marred by health concerns, including long medical stays in London, and a perceived slow pace of governance that earned him the nickname “Baba Go Slow.”
His government came under fire for human rights violations, including the killing of Shiite protesters and the military’s deadly crackdown on the 2020 #EndSARS demonstrations against police brutality.
After leaving office, Buhari retired to his hometown of Daura in northern Nigeria but continued to travel periodically to London for medical treatment.
His legacy remains deeply polarizing: a leader hailed for personal integrity and discipline, yet criticized for failing to transform Nigeria’s entrenched problems of poverty, corruption, and insecurity.
Further details on funeral arrangements are expected in the coming days.
