Muhammadu Buhari, the former president of Nigeria, died on Sunday at the age of 82, leaving behind a life marked by dramatic political shifts. He navigated a turbulent landscape as a military ruler, faced imprisonment, and later re-emerged to become an elected democratic leader. His journey encapsulates the evolving political narrative of Nigeria over several decades.
Life and Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari: From Military Ruler to Democratic Leader
Life and Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari: From Military Ruler to Democratic Leader
A look back at the impactful journey of Nigeria’s ex-president, Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away at 82.
Buhari's military career commenced shortly after his education, and by 1977, he had attained the rank of a regional military commander, a pivotal phase showcased in a 1977 photograph with notable world leaders like Sweden's Carl XVI Gustaf and Saudi Arabia's Sheikh Ahmed Zaki Yamani. In 1983, he was initially seen as a figurehead who ascended to power following a military coup that ousted elected President Shehu Shagari. Although he later denied orchestrating the coup, accounts suggest a more proactive role in its execution.
His tenure as a ruler was characterized by stringent policies against corruption, but it was also marred by human rights abuses. After being ousted from power and undergoing three years of house arrest, he made a political comeback in the early 2000s, representing the All Nigerian Peoples Party in democratic elections. Despite facing electoral defeats in 2003, 2007, and 2011, he garnered considerable support, particularly among the youth, for his anti-corruption and security pledges.
Buhari's persistence paid off in 2015 when he secured his position as president by defeating incumbent Goodluck Jonathan, marking a significant political milestone as the first opposition candidate to triumph in a general election. However, his presidency was not without issues; economic challenges and security crises overshadowed his first term. His controversial comments towards his wife sparked considerable backlash, indicating the struggles of leadership in a complex political environment.
Despite the obstacles, Buhari was re-elected in 2019 and continued to represent Nigeria on the world stage, meeting leaders from various countries, including Queen Elizabeth II and US Presidents Obama and Trump. Following his passing in a clinic in London, Buhari's legacy is viewed through a multifaceted lens. Some criticize him for failing to fulfill his campaign promises, while others commend his dedication to the nation amidst persistent political dysfunction.
In mourning Buhari, Jonathan praised him as a selfless servant of the country, emphasizing his commitment and patriotism, underscoring the nuanced legacy of Buhari in Nigeria's ongoing political saga.
His tenure as a ruler was characterized by stringent policies against corruption, but it was also marred by human rights abuses. After being ousted from power and undergoing three years of house arrest, he made a political comeback in the early 2000s, representing the All Nigerian Peoples Party in democratic elections. Despite facing electoral defeats in 2003, 2007, and 2011, he garnered considerable support, particularly among the youth, for his anti-corruption and security pledges.
Buhari's persistence paid off in 2015 when he secured his position as president by defeating incumbent Goodluck Jonathan, marking a significant political milestone as the first opposition candidate to triumph in a general election. However, his presidency was not without issues; economic challenges and security crises overshadowed his first term. His controversial comments towards his wife sparked considerable backlash, indicating the struggles of leadership in a complex political environment.
Despite the obstacles, Buhari was re-elected in 2019 and continued to represent Nigeria on the world stage, meeting leaders from various countries, including Queen Elizabeth II and US Presidents Obama and Trump. Following his passing in a clinic in London, Buhari's legacy is viewed through a multifaceted lens. Some criticize him for failing to fulfill his campaign promises, while others commend his dedication to the nation amidst persistent political dysfunction.
In mourning Buhari, Jonathan praised him as a selfless servant of the country, emphasizing his commitment and patriotism, underscoring the nuanced legacy of Buhari in Nigeria's ongoing political saga.
