Muhammadu Buhari, a significant figure in Nigeria's political landscape, served as both military ruler and democratically elected president, but his tenure was marked by numerous challenges and controversies.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria Passes Away at 82
Former President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria Passes Away at 82
Former Nigerian leader Muhammadu Buhari has died at 82 in London.
Former Nigerian leader Muhammadu Buhari has died at the age of 82 in a London clinic following a brief illness. The ex-president was reported to have traveled to the UK in April for a routine medical examination before his health deteriorated. Buhari was a prominent figure in Nigeria's political sphere; he served as both a military ruler and a democratically elected president. He gained recognition for his anti-corruption stance and commitment to fighting Nigeria's persistent economic and security challenges.
Buhari's rise to the presidency was marked by a historic achievement in 2015 when he became the first opposition candidate to unseat an incumbent since the restoration of multiparty democracy in Nigeria in 1999. Known for his austere demeanor, Buhari maintained a reputation for personal honesty amidst widespread corruption among Nigerian politicians. This reputation helped him garner significant support, particularly among the poorer populations in Nigeria's north.
Despite his initial popularity, Buhari faced criticism over his administration's handling of various issues, including the ongoing Islamist insurgency led by Boko Haram and deadly clashes between farmers and herders. His government also faced backlash for the economic downturn resulting from the global oil price crash. While Buhari promised to tackle corruption and create job opportunities for the youth, many Nigerians grew disillusioned as their living conditions worsened during his presidency.
Born in December 1942, Buhari's early life was marked by hardship after the death of his father. He pursued military training and rose through the ranks, eventually leading to a military coup in 1983 that interrupted a democratic government. His rule during that period was characterized by harsh measures against indiscipline and corruption that included human rights abuses, resulting in his ousting in 1985. Following his release from prison, he entered partisan politics, eventually returning to the presidential race.
As president, Buhari promoted his integrity and transparent governance but struggled with critics who questioned the effectiveness of his administration in addressing systemic corruption and economic hardship. His legacy is likely to be viewed as complex, particularly in light of the challenges his government faced and the public discontent regarding soaring food prices and economic inequality.
Buhari is survived by his wife Aisha and ten children and leaves a mixed legacy in Nigerian politics, marked by both his military past and democratic aspirations. His passing marks the end of an era for a leader who navigated through Nigeria’s tumultuous political landscape.
Buhari's rise to the presidency was marked by a historic achievement in 2015 when he became the first opposition candidate to unseat an incumbent since the restoration of multiparty democracy in Nigeria in 1999. Known for his austere demeanor, Buhari maintained a reputation for personal honesty amidst widespread corruption among Nigerian politicians. This reputation helped him garner significant support, particularly among the poorer populations in Nigeria's north.
Despite his initial popularity, Buhari faced criticism over his administration's handling of various issues, including the ongoing Islamist insurgency led by Boko Haram and deadly clashes between farmers and herders. His government also faced backlash for the economic downturn resulting from the global oil price crash. While Buhari promised to tackle corruption and create job opportunities for the youth, many Nigerians grew disillusioned as their living conditions worsened during his presidency.
Born in December 1942, Buhari's early life was marked by hardship after the death of his father. He pursued military training and rose through the ranks, eventually leading to a military coup in 1983 that interrupted a democratic government. His rule during that period was characterized by harsh measures against indiscipline and corruption that included human rights abuses, resulting in his ousting in 1985. Following his release from prison, he entered partisan politics, eventually returning to the presidential race.
As president, Buhari promoted his integrity and transparent governance but struggled with critics who questioned the effectiveness of his administration in addressing systemic corruption and economic hardship. His legacy is likely to be viewed as complex, particularly in light of the challenges his government faced and the public discontent regarding soaring food prices and economic inequality.
Buhari is survived by his wife Aisha and ten children and leaves a mixed legacy in Nigerian politics, marked by both his military past and democratic aspirations. His passing marks the end of an era for a leader who navigated through Nigeria’s tumultuous political landscape.
