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Nigeria Former President |
The passing of Muhammadu Buhari has drawn reactions from people across Nigeria and beyond, as he was a key figure in the country’s political and military history. He served as Nigeria’s president twice—first as a military ruler and later as a democratically elected leader.
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Muhammadu Buhari was born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, a town in Katsina State, in the northern part of Nigeria. He lost his father at the age of four and was raised by his mother. He joined the Nigerian Army in 1961 and received military training not only in Nigeria but also in the United Kingdom, India, and the United States. Throughout his military career, he held several important positions, including serving as the military governor of the North Eastern State (which includes present-day Borno State) and later as the Federal Commissioner (Minister) for Petroleum Resources.
First Time as Head of State (1983–1985)
Buhari first became Nigeria’s leader on December 31, 1983, after a military coup removed the then-civilian government of President Shehu Shagari. As head of state, Buhari introduced tough policies aimed at fixing the country’s economy and fighting indiscipline. His regime launched a nationwide campaign called the “War Against Indiscipline,” which enforced strict rules on public behavior. However, his government was also criticized for being too harsh, restricting freedom of speech, jailing journalists, and ruling with an iron hand. He was later overthrown by General Ibrahim Babangida in August 1985.
Return to Politics and Civilian Presidency
After his military rule, Buhari stayed away from public life for many years but later returned to politics. He ran for president three times—in 2003, 2007, and 2011—but lost each time. However, in 2015, he contested again under the All Progressives Congress (APC) and won the presidential election by defeating then-President Goodluck Jonathan. This was a historic moment in Nigeria, as it marked the first time a sitting president was defeated in a democratic election.
Buhari was re-elected in 2019, defeating former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. During his presidency from 2015 to 2023, Buhari focused on fighting corruption, reducing insecurity caused by Boko Haram and other groups, and improving Nigeria’s economy. However, his government also faced major challenges, including a struggling economy, long absences due to his health problems, and criticism over human rights abuses.
Personal Life
Buhari was married twice. His first wife, Safinatu Yusuf, was married to him from 1971 until they divorced in 1988. They had five children together. He later married Aisha Halilu in 1989, and they also had five children.
Final Days and Legacy
Buhari spent his final days in London, where he passed away on July 13, 2025. At the time of his death, he was 82 years old. Funeral arrangements will be announced by his family and are expected to follow Islamic customs, which typically require burial within 24 hours of death.
Muhammadu Buhari will be remembered as a strong and disciplined leader who played a major role in shaping modern Nigeria. While opinions about his leadership differ—some praise his integrity and anti-corruption efforts, others criticize his handling of the economy and civil rights—there is no doubt that he left a lasting mark on the country’s history.
May his soul rest in peace.
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