Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Dies at 82 in London

LONDON, UK – July 13, 2025 — Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s former president and one of the most consequential figures in the country’s post-independence history, has died at the age of 82. His death was announced on Sunday by his longtime spokesperson, Garba Shehu, who confirmed that the former leader passed away in a London hospital after weeks of receiving medical care.

“The family of the former president has announced the passing of Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London. May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus, Amin,” Shehu posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Buhari had been abroad since April 2025. While his trip was initially described as a routine medical check-up, sources revealed that his health condition deteriorated, leading to an extended stay at the undisclosed London facility. This was not the first time Buhari had traveled abroad for medical reasons—during his presidency, such trips were a regular source of national debate.

From Military Rule to Democratic President

Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Muhammadu Buhari rose from a humble background to become both a military ruler and later, a democratically elected president. The 23rd child of his father, Buhari was raised by his mother after his father died when he was four years old. His early education took place in Daura and Maiduguri, followed by secondary education at Government College Katsina.

In 1961, Buhari joined the Nigerian Army and began a career marked by rigorous training and swift promotions. He trained in England, India, and the United States, and by the 1970s, held major command and administrative roles. Among these were appointments as Military Governor of the North Eastern State and as Federal Commissioner for Petroleum Resources, during which he also chaired the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

His first taste of national leadership came in December 1983, when he led a military coup that ousted the civilian government of President Shehu Shagari. Buhari ruled as Head of State until August 1985 when he was removed in a counter-coup led by General Ibrahim Babangida.

Political Rebirth and Democratic Journey

After years away from public life, Buhari re-entered the political arena following Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999. He ran for president three times—2003, 2007, and 2011—before finally winning in 2015 under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC), a political alliance he helped forge.

His victory in 2015 marked a historic moment: the first time in Nigeria’s history that an opposition candidate defeated an incumbent president. He campaigned on a message of anti-corruption, national security, and economic reform, themes that resonated deeply with a population frustrated by years of perceived misrule and elite impunity.

Buhari was re-elected in 2019 for a second and final term, serving until May 29, 2023. His tenure was marked by efforts to modernize infrastructure, revive agriculture, and reduce corruption—but also by widespread criticism over human rights abuses, insecurity, and economic stagnation.

“He was a man of discipline and conviction, though often polarizing. You couldn't ignore him,” said Dr. Ifeanyi Ibekwe, a political analyst at the University of Lagos. “His legacy will be debated for years to come.”

Personal Life and Legacy

Buhari was married twice—first to Safinatu Yusuf in 1971 (divorced in 1988), and later to Aisha Halilu in 1989. He fathered ten children from both marriages. Despite holding Nigeria’s highest office, he remained a deeply private man, known for his reserved demeanor and strict lifestyle.

His health was often the subject of public concern. Throughout his presidency, he made multiple medical trips abroad, particularly to the UK. Though he remained visibly active after stepping down in 2023, reports indicated his condition worsened earlier this year.

His death marks the end of an era. Loved by supporters for his integrity and loathed by critics for authoritarian tendencies and economic missteps, Buhari leaves behind a complex legacy.

“He was a symbol of Nigeria’s struggle to find its footing as a modern democracy,” said Prof. Amina Salisu, a historian at Ahmadu Bello University. “His passing forces a reflection on where we’ve been—and where we’re going.”

Public Reactions and What Comes Next

News of Buhari’s death has triggered national mourning. Social media was flooded with tributes, prayers, and debates about his impact on Nigeria’s political evolution. Hashtags such as #BuhariLegacy and #RestInPeaceBuhari trended for hours on platforms like X and Facebook.

Across northern Nigeria, mosques held special prayers in his honor. President Bola Tinubu is expected to address the nation and announce plans for a state funeral. According to sources close to the presidency, Buhari’s body will be flown to Nigeria later this week for interment in Daura, his hometown.

Flags across federal buildings have been ordered to fly at half-mast, and a week of national mourning is expected to be declared.

Conclusion

The death of Muhammadu Buhari marks the close of a political chapter that has deeply influenced Nigeria’s development over the past four decades. A military leader turned elected president, Buhari’s life embodied the country’s turbulent journey through dictatorship, democracy, and reform. While opinions about him remain deeply divided, few can deny the weight of his presence in Nigerian history.

What follows is a period of national reflection—and likely renewed conversations about the state of governance, leadership, and legacy in Africa’s most populous nation.

This story was first reported by PREMIUM TIMES.