News of Muhammadu Buhari’s death at the age of 82 has prompted reflection across Nigeria and beyond. Buhari, who served as both a military ruler and a democratically elected president, died in a London hospital after a prolonged illness. His passing marks the end of an era for Africa’s most populous nation and has sparked debate about his complex legacy.
From Daura to the World Stage
Born in December 1942 in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari’s early life was shaped by his Fulani Muslim heritage and a rigorous military education. He trained in Nigeria, the United Kingdom, India, and the United States, rising through the ranks to become a major general. His military career placed him at the heart of Nigeria’s turbulent years after independence, a period marked by coups and shifting power dynamics.
Military Rule and the War Against Indiscipline
Buhari first seized national attention in December 1983, when he led a coup that overthrew Nigeria’s civilian government. As military head of state, he launched the “War Against Indiscipline,” a campaign designed to restore order and curb corruption. Soldiers enforced new rules in public spaces, and Buhari’s strict approach won both praise and criticism. Supporters saw him as a necessary disciplinarian, but critics pointed to human rights abuses and a lack of political freedoms.
His time as military ruler was short-lived. In August 1985, another coup removed him from power, leading to a period of imprisonment and political exile.
The Return: From Dictator to Democrat
After Nigeria’s return to civilian rule in 1999, Buhari re-emerged as a political contender. He ran unsuccessfully for president three times before finally winning in 2015. His victory was historic. For the first time since independence, an opposition candidate unseated an incumbent president in a peaceful transfer of power. Buhari’s campaign focused on fighting corruption, tackling insecurity, and reviving the economy.
He won re-election in 2019, serving until 2023. Throughout his presidency, Buhari styled himself as a “converted democrat,” swapping military uniforms for traditional kaftans and prayer caps. He often declared, “I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody,” signalling his desire to rise above Nigeria’s entrenched political divisions.
A Presidency Marked by High Hopes and Harsh Realities
Buhari’s presidency began with optimism. Many Nigerians believed his military background would help defeat Boko Haram, the Islamist militant group that had terrorised the northeast. His anti-corruption rhetoric resonated with citizens weary of decades of mismanagement.
However, the challenges proved immense. While fatalities from Boko Haram attacks fell by 92% between 2015 and 2021, violence spread to other regions, with armed groups, separatists, and criminal gangs operating across the country. Buhari’s government launched several military operations and invested in new equipment, but insecurity remained a persistent problem.
On the economic front, Buhari’s tenure coincided with falling global oil prices and two recessions. Nigeria, once Africa’s largest economy, slipped in the rankings. Critics argued that his commitment to a strong naira and complex exchange rate policies hampered growth. The COVID-19 pandemic and renewed attacks on oil infrastructure further strained the economy.
Achievements and Controversies
Despite these challenges, Buhari’s administration achieved notable successes. His government recovered significant amounts of looted public funds, implemented the Single Treasury Account to improve transparency, and completed major infrastructure projects, including roads, railways, and bridges. The Second Niger Bridge and the Lagos-Ibadan railway stand out as symbols of progress.
Buhari also signed the Petroleum Industry Act, restructuring Nigeria’s vital oil sector and setting the stage for future reforms. His social investment programmes, such as direct cash transfers and school feeding schemes, aimed to reduce poverty and support vulnerable communities.
Yet, his record on human rights and the rule of law drew criticism. The government’s response to youth-led protests against police brutality, known as the EndSARS movement, was widely condemned. Reports of excessive force and ongoing abuses by security forces tarnished his image as a reformer.
International Relations and the UK Connection
Buhari maintained close ties with the United Kingdom throughout his career. He received part of his military training in Britain and often travelled to London for medical treatment. His death in a London hospital underscores the enduring relationship between Nigeria and its former colonial power.
One of Buhari’s most significant international achievements came in 2023, when Nigeria won a landmark legal battle in a UK court over a multi-billion dollar arbitration case. The victory was seen as a defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and a rare moment of unambiguous pride for his administration.
Tributes and Reflections
Current Nigerian President Bola Tinubu expressed condolences to Buhari’s family and ordered the vice president to travel to the UK to accompany Buhari’s remains home. Flags were lowered to half-mast across Nigeria as the nation entered a period of mourning.
Many Nigerians are reflecting on Buhari’s legacy. Some praise his integrity and determination to fight corruption, while others lament missed opportunities and ongoing challenges. As tributes pour in, the debate over his place in history is likely to continue for years.
The Man Behind the Headlines
Buhari was married twice and had ten children. He was known for his austere lifestyle and personal discipline. In 2015, he publicly declared his assets to promote transparency, a rare move among Nigerian politicians.
His supporters, especially in the north, admired his simplicity and commitment to public service. Critics, however, often described him as distant and uncharismatic, struggling to connect with Nigeria’s diverse population.
