A Sad Day for Nigeria
Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has died. He was 82 years old. His death was announced on Sunday. It happened in London. He was receiving medical treatment there. The news shocked many people. Nigerians are mourning his loss. Buhari led Nigeria from 2015 to 2023. He was a key figure in the country’s history.
His press secretary confirmed the news. Garba Shehu shared it on social media. The announcement came at 4:30 pm local time. Vice President Kashim Shettima will travel to London. He will bring Buhari’s body back home. A Muslim burial is planned in Katsina. This is his home state in the north.
Muhammadu Buhari during his presidency.
Early Life and Military Rule
Buhari was born on December 17, 1942. He grew up in Daura, Katsina State. He joined the army as a young man. He became a Major General. In 1983, he took power. He led Nigeria as a military ruler. His rule lasted from 1983 to 1985. He focused on discipline. He fought corruption. He ordered tough laws. These included whipping for traffic violations.
His military government was strict. He expelled illegal immigrants. About 700,000 people left. He also targeted drug dealers. Some faced execution. His rule ended in a coup. He was removed from power in 1985. But his name stayed known. People remembered his strong leadership.
“He was a man of discipline,” said a former colleague.
Return to Power as a Democrat
Buhari returned to politics later. He ran for president multiple times. He lost in 2003, 2007, and 2011. Then he won in 2015. He beat Goodluck Jonathan. This was a historic moment. It was Nigeria’s fairest election. He became the first opposition leader to win. His party was the All Progressives Congress.
He served two terms. His time ended in 2023. Bola Tinubu succeeded him. Buhari promised change. He wanted to end corruption. He aimed to stop insecurity. He worked on infrastructure. This included roads and railways. But many felt he fell short. His health issues caused concern.
Buhari’s historic win in 2015.
Health Struggles and Criticism
Buhari faced health problems. He spent much time abroad for treatment. This started during his presidency. He visited London often. His absences worried Nigerians. Some called for him to step down. Details of his illness were never clear. This added to the mystery.
Critics had mixed views. Some praised his honesty. Others saw failures. Insecurity grew under him. Corruption remained a problem. The economy struggled. Writer Chimamanda Adichie called his leadership weak. She wrote this in 2020. Still, his supporters valued his efforts.
Legacy and Reactions
Buhari left a complex legacy. He was a soldier and a leader. He tried to fix Nigeria’s issues. His supporters say he was honest. They point to his anti-corruption fight. He started social programs. These helped the poor. He also built infrastructure. Roads and dams improved.
Leaders reacted quickly. President Tinubu spoke to Buhari’s widow. He offered condolences. Governors and officials mourned. The African Union Commission sent sympathies. People on social media shared thoughts. Some praised him. Others criticized his record. The nation is divided.
Projects built during Buhari’s time in office.
Personal Life and Family
Buhari married Aisha Buhari. They had children together. His family is from the north. He was a devout Muslim. This shaped his life. He often spoke of faith. His health decline saddened them. They stayed by his side. His death leaves a gap. They will plan his burial.
His widow is strong. She thanked supporters. The family asked for privacy. They will follow Muslim rites. The burial will be soon. Katsina awaits his return. It’s a time of grief for them.
“We will miss him dearly,” said Aisha Buhari.
What Happens Next?
Nigeria will honor Buhari. His body will return soon. The burial will be private. Leaders will pay respects. The government may hold events. People will debate his legacy. Some see him as a hero. Others see flaws. His death marks an end.
The country faces challenges. Insecurity persists. The economy needs work. Buhari’s time shaped it. His passing adds pressure. Leaders must step up. Nigerians will watch closely. The future is uncertain.
Nigeria looks to the future after Buhari’s death.
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