The end of the era in Nigeria
July 14th , 2025
Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s former military ruler and two‑term elected president, passed away yesterday on July 13, 2025 in London at age 82 after a prolonged illness . His death marks the end of a career that spanned from military coups to democratic governance a journey full of ambition, controversy, resolve, and unwavering discipline.
Early Life & Military Career .
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari was the son of Adamu and Zulaiha Buhari, and fathered ten children . He joined the Nigerian Army in 1961, trained in Kaduna and at the Mons Officer Cadet School in the UK, and later served in the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), forging his austere, integrity-driven personal.
By 1975, he rose to Governor of the North‑Eastern State, before heading the Petroleum Ministry and Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation under General Obasanjo. His strict discipline culminated in the December 1983 coup that removed President Shehu Shagari ushering in his War Against Indiscipline campaigns, famed for his iron‑fisted approach to public order. However, this regime lasted only until August 1985, when he was overthrown in another coup and detained for nearly three years .
Return to Civilian Politics.
After nearly a decade in the political wilderness, Buhari re‑emerged in the 1990s as chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund under General Abacha, spearheading infrastructure development in roads, education, and health. He stood for president in 2003 and 2007 (for ANPP) and 2011 (for CPC), losing each time but gaining recognition.
Buhari was a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2014. In March 2015, he won the presidency against incumbent Goodluck Jonathan historic as the first time an incumbent was defeated in Nigeria’s democratic era .
Presidency (2015–2023)
Sworn in on May 29, 2015, Buhari, a strict Muslim known for his disciplined asceticism, embraced the motto: “I belong to everybody and nobody”. He sought to tackle corruption, insurgency, and economic stagnation through a methodical lens,
Anti-corruption drive
He Implemented the Treasury Single Account (TSA), recovered hundreds of millions in stolen funds, and saw over 600 corruption convictions under Buhari’s watch .
Security & Boko Haram
He Launched military offensives against Boko Haram, achieving territorial gains and the release of Chibok schoolgirls. Yet, insurgent violence and banditry persisted and even escalated under his watch .
Economic challenges
Two recessions hit in 2016 and 2020, driven by oil price fluctuations, inflation, foreign‑exchange shortages, and currency controls. Border closures aggravated these pressures .
Civil liberties concerns
His regime garnered criticism for its handling of the October 2020 #EndSARS protests, social‑media bans, press censorship, and delayed cabinet appointments, earning him the nickname “Baba‑Go‑Slow” .
Despite these issues, his supporters highlighted his sincere discipline, lack of personal enrichment, and moral integrity as central to his appeal .
Devotion & Leadership Style.
Buhari’s approach was defined by an unwavering worldview , discipline, accountability, nationalism, and ascetic personal conduct. He called himself a “converted democrat,” blending his military ethic with democratic governance. Internationally, he garnered praise such as from the UK’s John Kerry for his early anti‑corruption campaigns, and was recognized even by neighbouring Niger’s leadership.
As first military ruler, he aggressively pursued civic change as president, he completed votes and term limits, standing against corruption and climate of impunity.
Legacy & National Mourning
Buhari handed over power on May 29, 2023, to Bola Tinubu, retiring to Daura. He died in London after prolonged illness sources mention leukaemia . Flags nationwide flew at half‑mast. Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi lauded his integrity, patriotism, and national unity .
His legacy is undeniably complex , a symbol of hope for transparency and stability to many, yet a figure of discord to others resistant to his centralized, disciplined rule. Buhari reshaped Nigeria’s moral compass, but the underlying issues of inequality, insecurity, and fragmented unity remain unresolved.
In Summary.
Muhammadu Buhari’s life journey is a stark journey from disciplined soldier to contested ruler, militarist to democrat. His relentless war on corruption, austere lifestyle, and patriotic pledge left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s institutions. Yet growing economic woes, persistent insecurity, and civil rights concerns tempered his achievements. As Nigeria mourns, his legacy is one of transformation, trial, and fervent dedication leaving behind a nation deeply shaped by his iron will and polarizing vision.
May his soul rest in peace!
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Cheers,
Amjad
