Nigeria former president Buhari passes away at 82
In Memoriam: The Passing of Former President Muhammadu Buhari
Sudden Departure in London
The household of the former Nigerian leader confirmed that Muhammadu Buhari died Sunday at approximately 4:30 pm (15:30 GMT). The death occurred in a clinic in London, according to a statement released by Garba Shehu, who served as Buhari’s spokesperson during his presidency.
Flag at Half‑Staff and Honorary Orders
President Bola Tinubu issued a direct order for flags to fly at half‐staff throughout the nation in tribute to Buhari. He also instructed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to England to accompany the former president’s body back to Nigeria.
Health Rumours and Leadership Absences
- Buhari’s frequent overseas treatments sparked criticism over the transparency of his medical condition.
- During the 2015–2023 presidency, the leader’s extended absences raised concerns about the continuity of executive leadership.
- Despite the lack of a publicly disclosed illness, Buhari admitted in one of his trips that he had “never been so ill” and had received several blood transfusions.
Book Revelation and Alibi Fabrication
Last week, Garba Shehu launched a book titled “According to the President: Lessons from a Presidential Spokesperson’s Experience”. In the publication, Shehu confessed to fabricating a 2017 story about rats invading the presidential office. The alleged story was intended to divert attention from the leader’s health concerns.
Election Victory and Leadership Failures
Buhari, a former military ruler, made history as the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent in 2015. His election win was hailed as a rare chance for a new direction in Nigeria’s political landscape. However, during his tenure the nation struggled with persistent corruption, insecurity, and economic downturn.
Criticisms from the Nigerian Intellectual Community
The renowned Nigerian writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie wrote a 2020 opinion piece for The New York Times. Adichie declared that Buhari’s leadership demonstrated a “failure of leadership” and described the administration as “wilfully indifferent” and ineffective.
