Former Nigerian President and military ruler Muhammadu Buhari has passed away today, July 13, 2025, at the age of 82. His death marks the end of an era for a man who played a central role in shaping Nigeria’s military and democratic trajectory for over five decades.
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari hailed from a Fulani Muslim family. He began his education at Katsina Provincial Secondary School before joining the Nigerian Military Training College in 1962. Known for his discipline and firm stance, he quickly rose through the military ranks, eventually attaining the rank of Major General.
Buhari first came to national prominence during Nigeria’s political turbulence in the 1960s, participating in the July 1966 counter-coup. He later held key military and administrative roles, including Military Governor of the North-Eastern State and Federal Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources. Notably, during his time in the petroleum sector, he oversaw the creation of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), a vital institution in the country’s oil industry.
In December 1983, Buhari seized power in a coup that overthrew the democratically elected government of President Shehu Shagari. His military regime was characterized by a strict anti-corruption campaign and the infamous “War Against Indiscipline.” Though some praised his no-nonsense leadership style, others condemned his regime’s human rights violations, including the detention of journalists and political opponents without trial.
After being overthrown in 1985 by General Ibrahim Babangida, Buhari spent years away from the public eye. He later re-emerged in politics and ran for president in 2003, 2007, and 2011, before finally securing victory in 2015 under the All Progressives Congress (APC). His victory marked the first time in Nigeria’s history that an opposition candidate defeated an incumbent president.
During his two-term presidency (2015–2023), Buhari focused heavily on fighting corruption, combating the Boko Haram insurgency, and attempting to stabilize the economy through agricultural development and infrastructure projects. Despite these efforts, his administration faced growing criticism over worsening insecurity, inflation, youth unemployment, and perceived lopsided appointments.
Hikaya Newspaper reports that Buhari’s legacy remains a subject of debate. Supporters see him as a disciplined reformer who tried to cleanse Nigeria’s political system, while critics describe his leadership as authoritarian, slow, and marked by economic mismanagement. Nonetheless, his dual role as both a former military ruler and democratic president sets him apart in Nigeria’s history.
He died peacefully, according to family sources, surrounded by loved ones. Tributes have begun pouring in from across Nigeria and beyond, with national flags expected to be flown at half-mast in the days ahead. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced shortly.
Muhammadu Buhari leaves behind his wife, Aisha Buhari, several children, and a complex legacy that will continue to shape public discourse for years to come.