JUST IN: Former President Muhammadu Buhari Dies in UK Hospital

Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has died at the age of 82. He passed away on Sunday afternoon, July 13, 2025, in a London clinic where he had been receiving medical treatment since April.

The death was officially confirmed in a statement released by his longtime spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu. “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,” the terse message read.

The late Buhari, a retired Major General in the Nigerian Army and one of the most consequential figures in Nigeria’s modern history, served as both a military ruler (1983–1985) and later as a democratically elected president for two terms (2015–2023). His passing draws a definitive close to an era marked by both admiration and controversy.

Illness and Final Days

Buhari had travelled to the United Kingdom in April 2025, reportedly for a routine medical check-up. However, sources later disclosed that his condition worsened shortly after his arrival, and he had remained hospitalised since then. His health had long been a subject of public scrutiny during his presidency, as he frequently travelled abroad for treatment—a practice that drew criticism amidst the nation’s struggling healthcare sector.

A Military Past and Political Legacy

Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Muhammadu Buhari rose through the ranks of the Nigerian military before emerging on the national stage following the military coup of December 31, 1983. That coup ousted the democratically elected government of President Shehu Shagari, ushering Buhari in as Head of State.

His regime, though short-lived, was defined by the infamous “War Against Indiscipline,” a tough campaign that sought to instill order, curb corruption, and enforce public morality. However, critics described his methods as high-handed and authoritarian. In August 1985, he was removed from power in another coup, this time led by General Ibrahim Babangida.

Return as a Civilian Leader

Despite the abrupt end to his military rule, Buhari re-emerged decades later as a civilian politician. After three failed presidential bids in 2003, 2007, and 2011, he achieved a historic victory in 2015 under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC), defeating incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan. The peaceful transfer of power was a first in Nigeria’s history and marked a major milestone for democratic governance in the country.

He was re-elected in 2019 and served a full second term, which ended in May 2023. Buhari handed over power to his successor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and retired to his home in Daura, Katsina State.

A Mixed Presidency

Buhari’s presidency was framed around three central pillars: anti-corruption, security, and economic reform. Under his leadership, Nigeria recovered billions of naira in stolen assets and launched notable infrastructure projects such as the Second Niger Bridge and major rail lines across key regions.

However, his time in office was also defined by sharp criticisms. Worsening insecurity across the country—including the rise of banditry, kidnappings, and farmer-herder conflicts—cast a long shadow over his counter-insurgency efforts. Economic instability, including rising inflation, high unemployment, two recessions, and a weakened naira, also marred his record.

Concerns about press freedom, police brutality—particularly during the #EndSARS protests—and the perceived lopsidedness in political appointments further fueled discontent with his leadership, especially among younger Nigerians and civil society groups.

A Quiet Retirement

After leaving office in 2023, Buhari largely withdrew from the public eye, returning to Daura where he spent most of his post-presidency years in seclusion. His health remained a subject of speculation until his final overseas trip in April, which ended with his death three months later.

National Reactions

Tributes are beginning to pour in from political leaders, international allies, and citizens across Nigeria. While many remember him as a man of integrity and discipline, others reflect on the missed opportunities and unfulfilled promises that defined much of his presidency.

Buhari is survived by his wife, Aisha Buhari, and several children. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.