Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, is dead. The news came from London, where he reportedly died in a clinic this afternoon.
The statement, signed by his media aide, Garba Shehu, reads: “INNA LILLAHI WA INNA ILAIHIRRAJIUUN. The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London. May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus, Amin.”
Buhari served as Nigeria’s president in two terms, from 2015 to 2023, and was a prominent figure in Nigerian politics for decades.
His leadership was marked by efforts to combat corruption, improve security, and stabilize the economy.
Muhammadu Buhari was born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State. His journey into national prominence began with a distinguished military career. He joined the Nigerian Military Training College (now Nigerian Defence Academy) in 1961, receiving further officer cadet training at Mons Officer Cadet School in Aldershot, England, and at institutions in India and the United States.
Commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1963, he quickly rose through the ranks, commanding battalions and divisions, and holding key positions such as military governor of the North Eastern State (now Borno), federal commissioner for petroleum resources, and member of the Supreme Military Council.
Buhari played pivotal roles in Nigeria’s turbulent military history, including the 1975 coup that ousted General Yakubu Gowon and the 1983 coup that ended the civilian government of Shehu Shagari. Following the latter, Buhari became Nigeria’s military head of state from December 31, 1983, to August 27, 1985.
During his military rule, Buhari was known for his tough anti-corruption stance and the “War Against Indiscipline,” a campaign to instill order and ethical values in Nigerian society. However, his regime was also criticized for repressing the press and curtailing civil liberties.
After being deposed in a 1985 coup, Buhari remained a significant figure in Nigerian politics. He ran unsuccessfully for president in 2003, 2007, and 2011. His persistence paid off in 2015.
After being deposed in a 1985 coup, Buhari remained a significant figure in Nigerian politics. He ran unsuccessfully for president in 2003, 2007, and 2011. His persistence paid off in 2015.
Buhari became the presidential candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2015, capitalizing on his reputation for integrity and discipline.
In a tightly contested election, Buhari defeated incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan, marking the first time an incumbent lost re-election in Nigeria’s history. He was inaugurated on May 29, 2015, and re-elected in 2019, serving until 2023.
Buhari’s presidency was marked by efforts to combat corruption, tackle insecurity—especially the Boko Haram insurgency—and revive the economy. His leadership style reflected his military background: disciplined, austere, and focused on national order
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