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Muhammadu Buhari
Muhammadu Buhari was a Nigerian military officer, politician, and statesman who served as the President of Nigeria from 2015 to 2023. He previously ruled the country as a military Head of State from 1983 to 1985 after leading a coup that toppled the civilian government. Buhari became an emblematic figure in Nigerian politics, known for his austere personal image, anti-corruption stance, and controversial economic and security policies. His death on 13 July 2025 in London marked the end of an era in Nigerian political life.
Early Life and Education
Born on 17 December 1942 in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari was the 23rd child of Mallam Hardo Adamu, a Fulani chieftain, and Zulaihat. He lost his father at age four and was raised by his mother and relatives. Buhari attended local Qur’anic schools before enrolling at Daura and Mai’Adua Primary Schools, later proceeding to Katsina Middle School (later Katsina Provincial Secondary School) where he completed his secondary education in 1961. Inspired by military officers, Buhari chose a military career over medicine, entering the Nigerian Military Training College in 1962.
Military Career
Buhari received advanced military training in Nigeria and abroad, including at the Mons Officer Cadet School, UK. Rising through the ranks, he became a key figure during the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), commanding various battalions. In the post-war years, he held top positions, including Governor of North-Eastern State, Federal Commissioner for Petroleum, and Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
Military Head of State (1983–1985)
On 31 December 1983, Buhari overthrew Nigeria’s Second Republic, citing corruption and economic decline. His 20-month regime, marked by the “War Against Indiscipline,” pursued anti-corruption measures, strict economic controls, and harsh decrees, including the controversial Decree 4 which restricted press freedom. Though praised for fighting graft, his government was criticized for human rights abuses and repression. Buhari was overthrown in a palace coup in August 1985 led by General Ibrahim Babangida and was detained until 1988.
Civilian Political Career
Returning to civilian life, Buhari became Chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) under General Sani Abacha, gaining reputation for integrity. He ran unsuccessfully for president in 2003, 2007, and 2011 before winning the 2015 election under the All Progressives Congress (APC), becoming the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent president in Nigeria.
Presidency (2015–2023)
Buhari’s presidency was defined by his fight against corruption, the Boko Haram insurgency, and economic challenges. His administration launched the National Social Investment Program to address poverty but struggled with high unemployment and recession, worsened by falling oil prices. Buhari was re-elected in 2019, defeating Atiku Abubakar.
His tenure saw both achievements and controversies: the recovery of some Chibok girls kidnapped by Boko Haram, efforts to improve agriculture, and anti-corruption convictions, but also criticisms over security lapses, rising banditry, herder-farmer conflicts, economic stagnation, alleged authoritarian tendencies, and health-related absences abroad.
Personal Life
Buhari married Safinatu Yusuf in 1971, with whom he had five children. They divorced in 1988. In 1989, he married Aisha Halilu; they also had five children. Buhari was a devout Muslim and known for his frugal lifestyle. His public asset declaration in 2015 revealed modest personal wealth compared to many Nigerian politicians.
Health and Death
From 2016, Buhari faced recurring health issues, frequently traveling to London for treatment. On 13 July 2025, his family announced that he died in a London clinic after being hospitalized for an undisclosed ailment. He was 82. According to family sources, his burial will follow Islamic rites, with further details to be announced.
Legacy
Buhari leaves behind a complex legacy — a disciplined leader who championed anti-corruption, but whose governance raised debates about economic management, human rights, and national unity. For supporters, he was a patriot committed to reform; for critics, a rigid figure whose leadership fell short of transforming Nigeria’s deep-rooted challenges.
Quick Facts:
- Born: 17 December 1942, Daura, Katsina State
- Died: 13 July 2025, London, UK
- Spouses: Safinatu Buhari (m. 1971–1988), Aisha Buhari (m. 1989–2025)
- Children: 10 (5 from each marriage)
- Military Service: 1962–1985
- Political Party: All Progressives Congress (APC)
- Notable Roles: Head of State (1983–1985), President (2015–2023)
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