Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Dies at 82

• Former President Muhammadu Buhari passed away at 82 in London.
• Current President Bola Tinubu announced Buhari’s death due to prolonged illness.
• Buhari was a military ruler in the 1980s before becoming an elected president.
• His presidency was marred by health issues and public scrutiny.
• Critics believe his leadership failed to tackle corruption and insecurity.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari Dies at 82 in London

The news broke Sunday that former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has passed away at the age of 82. His aide and the presidency confirmed that he died in London around 4:30 pm (1530 GMT) following what has been described as a prolonged illness. President Bola Tinubu, in an official announcement, did not detail the specific nature of Buhari’s illness, which had been the subject of public speculation for several years. This moment has resonated throughout Nigeria and beyond, reflecting not just on Buhari’s time in power, but also on the issues that marked his leadership.

Buhari’s Complex Legacy as a Leader

Muhammadu Buhari was a figure who experienced a fascinating mix of power dynamics throughout his political life. Initially, he ruled Nigeria with an iron fist as a military leader in the 1980s before returning to the political scene as an elected leader after years in the periphery. Serving two terms from 2015 until 2023, Buhari’s presidency was often scrutinized for perceived inefficiencies, particularly concerning Nigeria’s rampant corruption and insecurity. Following the announcement of his death, grieving relatives confirmed that he died while receiving treatment in a clinic in London, adding that Vice President Kashim Shettima would handle the arrangements to repatriate his body back to Nigeria. In a gesture honoring Buhari, President Tinubu has also mandated that flags be flown at half-mast across the nation.

Reflections on Buhari’s Administration

Buhari’s leadership saw its fair share of challenges, perhaps most notably his frequent medical trips abroad which some critics argue reflected a deeper issue within Nigeria’s healthcare system. This dependence on foreign healthcare raised concerns about his ability to govern effectively during his enduring absences. Not to overlook, the former president himself acknowledged during one of his medical breaks that he had never been as unwell, indicating he had endured multiple blood transfusions. It is notable that last week, his spokesperson launched a book confessing to fabricating stories to distract from Buhari’s health issues, a poignant reminder of the extent to which appearances often trumped reality under Buhari’s administration. As history remains to be written, Buhari’s dual narrative as both military ruler and democratically elected leader will forever shape Nigeria’s political landscape.

The passing of Muhammadu Buhari at 82 marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigerian history. His life, reflected in the duality of military might and democratic leadership, highlights a complex legacy. While he faced challenges during his presidency, including criticisms regarding health transparency and governance, the implications of his leadership will continue to influence Nigeria long after his departure.