Nigeria’s former President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), GCFR, has passed away at the age of 81 in a private clinic in London, according to a statement from his spokesperson Garba Shehu and confirmed by the presidency today.
Buhari’s storied career included serving as military Head of State (1983–1985) and later as democratically elected President (2015–2023). His legacy spans anti-corruption fights, economic reforms, and a fierce battle against insurgency, alongside controversies over human rights and healthcare abroad .
A brief family announcement read:
“The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London. May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus. Amin.”
Militarist turned democrat: Led the 1983 coup, later became Nigeria’s first opposition candidate to unseat an incumbent President in 2015.
Anti-corruption crusader: His presidency emphasized discipline and integrity, but faced economic and human rights criticisms.
Medical tourism advocate: Known for frequent medical trips to London, a trend that sparked intense debate about Nigeria’s domestic healthcare system
