Nigeria is in mourning following the death of its former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away at the age of 82. His death was confirmed in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) by a spokesperson for the Buhari family.
According to the statement, the former president died at a private clinic in London, where he had been receiving medical treatment for an undisclosed illness. “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, and former president, Muhammadu Buhari. He died peacefully surrounded by family and close aides,” the post read.
Buhari, a retired major general and former military head of state, served as Nigeria’s democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023. Known for his anti-corruption campaign and tough stance on security, Buhari remained a dominant figure in Nigerian politics for decades.
His time in office was marked by both praise and criticism. Supporters hailed his efforts to combat graft and rebuild national infrastructure, while critics pointed to economic hardship, persistent insecurity, and concerns over human rights.
Reactions from across the political spectrum poured in following the announcement. President Bola Tinubu described Buhari as “a patriot whose commitment to Nigeria never wavered,” adding that “his legacy will be debated, but his place in our history is undeniable.”
Flags are expected to fly at half-mast nationwide, and preparations for a state funeral are underway.
Buhari is survived by his wife, Aisha Buhari, and several children. More details about funeral arrangements are expected to be released in the coming days.
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