Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari has died at the age of 82 in a London hospital after a prolonged illness due to complications from leukemia. His spokesperson, Garba Shehu, announced his passing in a statement monitored by Governance Today Nigeria magazine and online news, saying, “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.”
Reaction from the Presidency
- President Bola Tinubu has expressed condolences to Buhari’s family, speaking with his widow, Aisha Buhari, to offer deep sympathies.
- Tinubu has ordered Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the UK to accompany Buhari’s body back to Nigeria.
- Flags across the country will be flown at half-staff as a mark of respect for the departed leader.
Buhari’s Legacy
Muhammadu Buhari served as Nigeria’s President from 2015 to 2023 and previously ruled the country as a military head of state from 1983 to 1985. During his presidency, he was known for:
- Anti-Corruption Efforts: Buhari’s administration focused on combating corruption, which was a central plank of his agenda.
- Economic Stabilization: He worked to stabilize the economy, although his administration faced criticism over rising insecurity and economic hardship.
- Complex Leadership: Buhari’s presidency was marked by growing violence across the country, with armed groups expanding beyond the northeast into the northwest and southeast regions.
Funeral Arrangements
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced, but President Tinubu has directed that Buhari’s body be brought back to Nigeria for burial according to Islamic rites.
