Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who served from 2015 to 2023, passed away in London at approximately 4:30 p.m. on October 21, 2023, after a prolonged illness. He was 82 years old. Buhari’s legacy is marked by his dual roles as both a military ruler and a reformed democrat, showcasing a complex journey through Nigeria’s tumultuous political landscape.
Buhari was born on 17 December 1942 in Daura, Katsina State. He commenced his military career by passing out from officer cadet training in Kaduna State, Great Britain, India and the United States. He assumed power in a 1983 military coup. Just two years later, he was himself overthrown in yet another coup in 1985. In spite of this early failure, Buhari was not deterred. He doggedly continued his political dream and was finally elected president in 2015 after three prior failed runs in earlier elections. His re-election in 2019 further entrenched his position as a truly disruptive force in Nigeria’s governance.
Buhari’s time as president of Nigeria was largely defined by turmoil and hardship. His critics have chastised him for waiting too long to respond to Nigeria’s multiplying economic disasters. After taking office, it took him six months to appoint full-time ministers to his cabinet. Even his supporters acknowledged that this lack of decisiveness crippled his capacity to tackle the overwhelming issues of the day with conviction.
“In 1983, Buhari felt he was swindled when he was asked by the IMF to devalue the Naira and remove subsidy. Three weeks later there was a coup against him. Since then he has been suspicious of free market policies and he took a long time to do things. When he did do them, the impact was too little too late and not optimal.” – Bismarck Rewane
Though these challenges were formidable, Buhari pledged to combat terrorist groups and re-invigorate the economy during his successful presidential campaign. His uncompromising attack on the spoils system and patronage made him an idol of reformers and their foes alike.
Buhari’s dogged pursuit of Boko Haram, during his time as military governor of Borno State. This battle to orient American military and economic might toward national security firmly established his priorities. In moments great and small, his leadership style embodied the values of integrity, goodwill, and commitment to public service. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the current president, remarked on Buhari’s character:
“He stood firm through the most turbulent times, leading with quiet strength, profound integrity, and an unshakable belief in Nigeria’s potential. He championed discipline in public service, confronted corruption head-on, and placed the country above personal interest at every turn.” – Bola Ahmed Tinubu
Personally, during his lifetime Buhari was happily married twice and fathered ten children. His family were superstars behind the scenes too, taking care of the home front while their father and husband worked on his numerous political campaigns and personal challenges.
Though Buhari’s leadership style certainly received a range of opinions during his tenure, deep respect for his distinct personality was widely recognized. Bismarck Rewane described him as “a very exceptional governor.” His judgment was predicated on the strong character of Buhari, a scintillating gem in a region often riddled with corruption and unpredictability amongst its leaders.
As Nigeria continues to process the presidency of Muhammadu Buhari. We will all miss him, but his legacy will be how he fought for the most vulnerable and how he kicked out all the obstacles on his path. The imprint of his governance will be felt even until his heirs’ political opponents likely rule Nigeria decades from now.
