How Did Muhammadu Buhari’s Death Unfold?
Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s former president and one of the country’s most polarizing figures, died Sunday in London at the age of 82 following a prolonged illness. The news was confirmed by President Bola Tinubu, who stated that Buhari passed away around 4:30 p.m. local time.
Garba Shehu, Buhari’s longtime spokesperson, shared the news on social media: “The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, this afternoon in a clinic in London.” Tinubu also confirmed speaking with Buhari’s widow and dispatched Vice President Kashim Shettima to escort the body back to Nigeria. In a mark of national respect, flags have been ordered to fly at half-staff.
Although the exact nature of Buhari’s illness was never revealed, his frequent medical trips to the UK during his presidency stirred national debate. In one of his statements during a treatment period, Buhari admitted, “I’ve never been so ill,” and acknowledged undergoing multiple blood transfusions.
What Defined Buhari’s Leadership?
Buhari first rose to power as a military leader in the 1980s and later returned as an elected president, serving from 2015 to 2023. His journey from military strongman to what he called a “converted democrat” marked a rare evolution in Nigerian politics.
His 2015 election broke historical norms; he became the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent. The victory carried hopes for reform, especially in fighting corruption and improving national security. However, despite initial optimism, critics argue that he failed to deliver substantial change.
Notably, Buhari’s administration was riddled with controversies over health transparency. His extended medical absences and vague official updates led to speculation and public frustration. These issues came under renewed scrutiny after Garba Shehu revealed in a recently launched book that in 2017, he fabricated a story about rats damaging the presidential office to divert attention from Buhari’s health concerns.
What Was the Legacy of Buhari’s Presidency?
Buhari’s two-term presidency left a divided legacy. Supporters credited him for efforts to curb corruption and stabilize parts of the country, while critics pointed to persistent economic instability and growing insecurity. His leadership was also marked by the ongoing deterioration of Nigeria’s healthcare system, which many attribute to his frequent medical trips abroad.
Acclaimed Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie summed up this disappointment in a 2020 New York Times piece, writing: “The government of President Muhammadu Buhari has long been ineffectual, with a kind of wilful indifference.”
By Lucky Anyanje
