The Journey of Muhammadu Buhari: From Military Dictator to Democratic Leader

Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away at 82, navigated a tumultuous political landscape in Nigeria over 50 years, from a military junta to an elected president. This article captures his significant milestones, challenges, and the legacy he leaves behind.

Muhammadu Buhari, the former president of Nigeria, passed away at the age of 82, leaving behind a complex legacy intertwined with Nigeria's political history over the past five decades. His life reflects the dramatic shifts within the nation's governance, often positioning him at the heart of pivotal events.

Buhari began as a soldier right after his schooling, climbing the ranks to become a regional military commander by 1977, as captured in a photo with then-King of Sweden, Carl XVI Gustaf, and Saudi Arabia's Sheikh Ahmed Zaki Yamani. This trajectory took a sharp turn in 1983 when he led a coup to overthrow President Shehu Shagari, becoming a military ruler, although he disclaimed any involvement in the coup's planning, attributing his rise to being a figurehead for powerful commanders.

His regime, marked by stringent anti-corruption measures and severe human rights violations, faced dissent and led to his ousting just two years later. Imprisoned by a subsequent junta for three years, Buhari returned to politics in 2003, this time through democratic channels, representing the All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP). Despite losing the election to incumbent Olusegun Obasanjo and subsequent presidential attempts in 2007 and 2011, he garnered a growing base of young supporters enamored by his anti-corruption promises.

In a significant political shift, Buhari won the presidency in 2015, breaking barriers as the first opposition candidate to secure a general election victory, a moment encapsulated in the historic call from Jonathan conceding defeat. However, his first term was fraught with economic setbacks and security issues, compounded by controversial remarks to his wife regarding her criticisms of his governance style.

Despite these challenges, Buhari was re-elected in 2019 and represented Nigeria on various global platforms, engaging with leaders such as Queen Elizabeth II and President Donald Trump. His passing in a London clinic has sparked mixed memories; while some criticize him for failing to meet campaign promises and undermining dissent, others reflect on his dedication and service to Nigeria. Jonathan, his former rival, lauded him as a committed patriot. Such tributes highlight the enduring complexities of Buhari's impact on Nigeria and its future.