Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, has died at the age of 82. His passing was announced this afternoon by his former aide, Bashir Ahmad, via a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
> “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, who led Nigeria both as a military ruler and a civilian president, died while receiving medical care in London. Burial arrangements, in accordance with Islamic rites, are expected to be made public by the family in the coming hours.
A Life of Service
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Muhammadu Buhari was a retired Major General in the Nigerian Army. He rose to national prominence after taking power in a military coup on December 31, 1983, becoming Head of State. His military regime was known for its strict anti-corruption stance and his “War Against Indiscipline” campaign. He was ousted in August 1985 by General Ibrahim Babangida.
After retiring from active military service, Buhari re-emerged on the political scene as a democratic contender. He ran for president three times unsuccessfully before achieving victory in 2015 under the All Progressives Congress (APC), defeating incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan—a historic first for an opposition candidate in Nigeria.
Re-elected in 2019, Buhari’s administration was marked by a focus on anti-corruption, national security, and economic reform. However, he also faced mounting criticism over worsening insecurity, economic downturns, and human rights issues.
He handed over power to his successor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on May 29, 2023.
National Mourning
President Tinubu, who is currently on official assignment abroad, has been briefed on the development and is expected to issue a national address. Flags are to be flown at half-mast across the country, while tributes continue to pour in from world leaders and Nigerian citizens alike.
Buhari is survived by his wife, Aisha Buhari, and children.
More details about funeral arrangements and national observances will be announced by the presidency in due course.
