Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has passed away at the age of 82 in a London hospital, after a prolonged illness. The news of his death was confirmed by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, and former aide, Bashir Ahmad, in separate statements on Sunday.
According to reports, Buhari died peacefully at a medical facility in London, where he had been receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness over the past few months. His family has requested prayers for his soul, saying “May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus, Amin”.
Buhari’s legacy is complex, marked by his commitment to eradicating corruption and addressing violence, but also criticized for escalating insecurity and allegations of government corruption during his presidency. His administration’s policies, particularly concerning foreign exchange and fiscal management, contributed to Nigeria entering a recession.
As news of Buhari’s passing spread, reactions varied across Nigeria’s diverse populace, reflecting the complexities of his administration. President Bola Tinubu has dispatched the Vice President to return Buhari’s body to Nigeria, where funeral arrangements will be made in accordance with Islamic rites and traditions.
Tributes are expected to pour in from leaders and citizens alike, reflecting on Buhari’s legacy and impact on Nigerian politics. His death marks the end of an era in Nigerian politics, leaving behind a complex legacy that will likely be debated and remembered for years to come.
Buhari was a towering figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, serving as the country’s first opposition candidate to unseat an incumbent president through the ballot box. His tenure as President from 2015 to 2023 was marked by efforts to root out government corruption, although his administration faced numerous challenges.
