Former President MUHAMMADU BUHARI who ruled as civilian President from 2015 to 2023 is dead.
The announcement was made by his former aide, Bashir Ahmad.
He died earlier today in London after a bout of sickness. It will be recalled that as President he had to be absent from office on several occasions on account of sickness. On one ocassion he was absent for as long as two whole months.
Muhammadu Buhari is a retired Nigerian Army Major General who served as Nigeria’s head of state from 1983 to 1985, and as its democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023. His military rule followed a coup that ousted President Shehu Shagari, and his presidency was marked by a focus on combating corruption and insecurity.
Early Life and Military Career:
Buhari was born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State.
He joined the Nigerian Army in 1962 and received training in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
He held various positions within the military, including military governor of the North-Eastern State and Federal Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources.
In 1983, he led a coup that overthrew the democratically elected government of President Shehu Shagari.
Military Head of State (1983-1985):
Buhari’s regime, known as the “War Against Indiscipline,” aimed to curb corruption and promote social order.
His administration faced criticism for human rights abuses and restrictions on freedom of speech.
In 1985, he was overthrown in a coup led by General Ibrahim Babangida.
Democratic Presidency (2015-2023):
Buhari returned to politics and contested the presidential elections in 2003, 2007, and 2011.
He finally won the 2015 election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), defeating incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan.
He was re-elected in 2019, defeating PDP candidate Atiku Abubakar.
His presidency focused on combating corruption, insecurity (particularly Boko Haram), and improving infrastructure.
He left office on May 29, 2023, after serving two terms.