BREAKING: Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Dies at 82 in London
London, July 13, 2025 – Former Nigerian President and retired Major‑General Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, has passed away at the age of 82. He died peacefully in a medical facility in London on Sunday afternoon.
The news was confirmed by his former aide, Bashir Ahmad, who shared the announcement on social media platform X, writing:
> “The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London. May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus. Amin.”
His former spokesperson, Garba Shehu, also confirmed the sad development and noted that details regarding burial arrangements in line with Islamic rites will be announced by the family.
Muhammadu Buhari was born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, then part of British Nigeria. He began his military career in 1962, receiving training both locally and abroad, including at the prestigious U.S. Army War College. During his early service, he held several important roles such as Governor of the North-Eastern State (1975–76) and Federal Commissioner for Petroleum Resources (1976–78).
Buhari rose to national prominence in December 1983 after leading a military coup that ousted the civilian government. As military head of state from 1983 to 1985, his regime became known for its rigid stance on discipline, launching the controversial "War Against Indiscipline," and implementing austerity-driven economic policies and anti-corruption measures.
Following his ouster in 1985, Buhari transitioned into democratic politics, running for president three times before finally achieving victory in 2015 under the All Progressives Congress (APC). He was re-elected in 2019 and completed his tenure in 2023. His administration prioritized anti-corruption, national security, and economic recovery, especially during the 2016–2017 recession and the ongoing insurgency by Boko Haram and other armed groups.
Despite his accomplishments, Buhari's leadership style and policies were not without controversy. Critics often pointed to economic stagnation, rising insecurity in later years, and alleged human rights violations under his administration. Nonetheless, his imprint on Nigerian governance and military affairs remains significant.
In his personal life, Buhari was married twice—first to Safinatu Yusuf (1971–1988) and later to Aisha Halilu (since 1989). He was a father to ten children and related to several prominent figures, including Mamman Daura and Muhammadu Ribadu.
As the nation mourns, tributes are expected to pour in from global leaders, Nigerian citizens, political allies, and even critics who recognize the former president’s deep influence on Nigeria's past and present. Further announcements regarding funeral arrangements will be made by the Buhari family and the Nigerian High Commission in the United Kingdom.
Muhammadu Buhari's death marks the close of a major chapter in Nigeria’s modern history—one marked by military command, democratic resilience, and enduring debate ove
r leadership and legacy.
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