Remembering Muhammadu Buhari: The Journey from Military Leader to Democratic President

Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away at 82, navigated the complexities of Nigerian politics for decades, transitioning from a military ruler to a democratically-elected president. His journey is marked by a coup, imprisonment, unsuccessful election attempts, and eventual victory, representing a pivotal era in Nigeria’s history.

Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away at the age of 82, is celebrated for his tumultuous journey through Nigeria's political landscape over the past fifty years. His life epitomized a nation in transition, marked by his experiences as both a military ruler and a democratically elected leader.

Buhari's military career began immediately after his schooling, and by 1977, he had risen to the position of regional military commander, as seen in a photograph with Sweden's King Carl XVI Gustaf. His political journey took a significant turn in 1983 when he led a coup that overthrew elected President Shehu Shagari. Although he assumed power, Buhari claimed he was not the mastermind behind the coup but merely a figurehead chosen by senior military commanders.

His two-year rule was characterized by strict measures against corruption and notable human rights abuses. However, his leadership was cut short when he himself was ousted by another junta and subjected to house arrest for three years. After stepping away from the political scene for many years, Buhari made a comeback in 2003, seeking the presidency as a candidate for the All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP).

Despite his fresh ambitions, he faced a challenging political landscape, losing to Olusegun Obasanjo and subsequently in two more presidential runs in 2007 and 2011. Despite these setbacks, Buhari garnered support, particularly among disenchanted youth, due to his commitment to fighting corruption and improving security, especially in his northern home region.

In a historic political turnaround, Buhari was eventually elected president in 2015, defeating then-incumbent Goodluck Jonathan—a moment captured when Jonathan conceded defeat, marking the first time an opposition candidate won a general election in Nigeria. However, Buhari's early term faced significant challenges, including an economic recession and rising security issues. Notably, he stirred controversy when he remarked that his wife belonged in the kitchen after she criticized his administration.

Despite a rocky start and past criticisms of broken campaign promises, Buhari was re-elected in 2019. His presidency saw him representing Nigeria globally, engaging with leaders from around the world, including a meeting with President Donald Trump in 2018.

Following his death in a London clinic, Buhari is remembered with mixed sentiments—some hail his undying commitment to Nigeria, while others criticize his governance. Former rival Jonathan lauded him as a selfless leader who served with deep patriotism, reflecting the complexity of Buhari's legacy in Nigerian history.