By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
The passing of Muhammadu Buhari, former President of Nigeria, has been confirmed. He died at the age of 82 in London on Sunday, July 13, after a prolonged illness.
In a statement released by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed his condolences to Buhari’s widow, Aishat Buhari.
Mallam Garba Shehu, Buhari’s long-time spokesperson, also shared the news, stating: “INNA LILLAHI WA INNA ILAIHIRRAJIUUN. The family of the former president has announced his passing this afternoon in a clinic in London. May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus, Amin.”
In honor of the late leader, President Tinubu has ordered flags to be flown at half-mast. Several African and world leaders have sent their condolences.
Buhari had been in the UK since April, initially for what was described as a routine medical check-up, but his health subsequently declined. He served as Nigeria’s president from 2015 to 2023, stepping down on May 29, 2023, after completing his constitutionally allowed two terms. Additionally, he held the position of military head of state from January 1984 to August 1985.
During his presidency, Buhari frequently sought medical treatment in London. While his health reportedly improved after leaving office, it deteriorated again in April 2025, prompting him to remain abroad for ongoing treatment.
Buhari made history as the first opposition candidate to unseat a sitting president in Nigeria, defeating Goodluck Jonathan in 2015 with a promise to combat rampant corruption and address the Boko Haram insurgency.
He successfully secured re-election in 2019. However, his administration faced challenges, including persistent corruption, insecurity, economic difficulties, and criticism over his handling of protests.
Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari was raised by his mother after his father’s death when he was four years old. His legacy as a leader who transitioned from military rule to an elected presidency remains a significant chapter in Nigerian politics.
