By Ayomide Otitoju
Former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, has passed away at the age of 81. The news was confirmed on Sunday by his former aide, Bashir Ahmad, who announced the former leader’s death in a London clinic.
“The family of the former president has announced the passing on of Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London,” Ahmad stated.
Buhari, a retired Major General, was one of Nigeria’s most prominent political and military figures, serving as military Head of State from 1983 to 1985, and later as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023. His legacy is defined by his staunch anti-corruption stance, economic reforms, and national security efforts.
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari began his military career in 1961 and rose through the ranks, participating in the Nigerian Civil War and holding various command positions. He served as Federal Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources in 1976 before leading a military coup that brought him to power in 1983.
His first tenure was marked by the “War Against Indiscipline” and economic austerity measures, but it was cut short by a palace coup in 1985 led by General Ibrahim Babangida.
After years in political wilderness, Buhari returned to national prominence, contesting the presidency multiple times before his 2015 victory against then-incumbent Goodluck Jonathan — a historic democratic transition. He was re-elected in 2019, serving until May 29, 2023, when he handed over to President Bola Tinubu.
Throughout his presidency, Buhari’s administration pursued anti-corruption policies, expanded social intervention programs, and battled the Boko Haram insurgency, though his government also faced criticism over economic downturns and human rights issues.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in accordance with Islamic rites.
