By Peter Omopo | July 13, 2025
Nigeria today mourns the passing of one of its most consequential and enigmatic leaders—Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.)—a man whose career spanned over four decades of the nation’s post-independence history, straddling both military and democratic governance.
The former Head of State and two-term civilian President died in a hospital in London on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 82. His death brings the curtain down on a storied life marked by a complex blend of authoritarianism, democratic resilience, and unwavering political ambition.
From Daura to National Duty
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari began his journey in public service when he enrolled in the Nigerian Military Training College in 1962. He later received advanced military training in the United Kingdom, India, and the United States, positioning him for a rapid rise through the ranks.
He gained national attention for his role during the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), emerging as a tough and disciplined field commander. His performance earned him key appointments under military regimes, including Governor of the North-Eastern State (1975) and Federal Commissioner (Minister) for Petroleum Resources (1976) under General Olusegun Obasanjo. In 1977, he became Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), overseeing one of the country’s most critical economic sectors.
1983: Seizing Power in the Name of Discipline
On December 31, 1983, Buhari led a bloodless military coup that ousted the civilian administration of President Shehu Shagari, citing corruption and economic mismanagement. As Head of State, Buhari introduced the infamous War Against Indiscipline (WAI)—a campaign that cracked down on social misconduct but also drew global criticism for its harsh enforcement methods, press restrictions, and disregard for civil liberties.
His economic policies included tight control of imports, budget austerity, and debt reduction—steps which, though economically prudent, were unpopular and contributed to growing discontent.
That discontent came to a head in August 1985, when he was deposed in another coup led by General Ibrahim Babangida. Buhari was detained in Benin City for over three years.
The Reluctant Democrat: 2003–2011
Emerging from political obscurity, Buhari re-entered national consciousness in 2003, contesting for the presidency under the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP). He lost to President Olusegun Obasanjo, but retained a devoted support base, particularly in the North.
He made a second and third bid in 2007 (against Umaru Musa Yar’Adua) and 2011 (against Goodluck Jonathan), the latter under the banner of his newly formed Congress for Progressive Change (CPC).
Despite three successive defeats and court challenges, Buhari’s image as a no-nonsense, incorruptible leader persisted—setting the stage for a dramatic political comeback.
The Fourth Time Charm: 2013–2015
In 2013, Buhari became instrumental in orchestrating the historic merger of four opposition parties—CPC, Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), and a faction of APGA—to form the All Progressives Congress (APC).
This coalition gave rise to a formidable national movement that culminated in Buhari’s fourth presidential run in 2015. On March 28, he defeated incumbent Goodluck Jonathan, becoming the first opposition candidate in Nigeria’s history to unseat a sitting president via the ballot box.
He was sworn in on May 29, 2015, marking a rare return to power—this time as a civilian president, exactly 30 years after his military rule.
2015–2023: The Buhari Presidency
Re-elected in 2019, Buhari served two terms until May 29, 2023, presiding over one of the most discussed administrations in Nigeria’s democratic era.
Achievements:
- Expansion of critical infrastructure projects (roads, railways, airports).
- Implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) to curb financial leakages.
- Reforms in the agricultural sector and support for local production.
- Prosecution of high-profile corruption cases.
Criticisms:
- Persistent insecurity, with increased incidents of insurgency, banditry, and kidnappings.
- Economic challenges, including rising inflation, unemployment, and two recessions.
- Allegations of ethno-regional bias in appointments.
- Weak engagement with civil society and critics.
Legacy: A Nation Divided on His Record
Buhari’s legacy will remain a topic of intense debate.
To some, he was a symbol of discipline, integrity, and national renewal—a man who placed country above self. To others, he was an authoritarian, whose presidency was marked by economic hardship, institutional fragility, and unanswered national anxieties.
What is indisputable, however, is the indelible mark he left on Nigeria’s political narrative: from a military ruler who seized power by force to a democratically elected leader who reclaimed it at the polls.
Final Salute
As the nation reflects on the life of Muhammadu Buhari, his journey stands as a testimony to Nigeria’s turbulent yet enduring democratic evolution. From Daura to Dodan Barracks, from detention cells to Aso Rock, Buhari’s path mirrored the trials of the nation he sought to shape.
In death, the general takes his final salute—but the debates around his legacy, leadership, and lessons will live on.
