10 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE LATE FORMER PRESIDENT MUHAMMAD BUHARI

Muhammadu Buhari stands as one of the most prominent and polarizing figures in Nigeria’s modern history. His public life spans over five decades, marked by a unique distinction: he is the only Nigerian to have ruled the country both as a military Head of State and as a democratically elected President. From his early military days and role in the Nigerian Civil War to his authoritarian leadership in the 1980s and eventual return to power through the ballot box, Buhari’s legacy is woven with themes of discipline, anti-corruption, and national security.

This article explores ten defining moments and roles in Buhari’s life, shedding light on the achievements, controversies, and enduring impact of a leader who has shaped Nigeria’s political landscape across different eras.

1. Twice Nigeria’s Leader — Military and Civilian
Muhammadu Buhari served as Nigeria’s military Head of State (1983–1985) and later as democratically elected President (2015–2023) — making him the only Nigerian to lead the country in both capacities.

2. Military Background and Civil War Participation
Buhari joined the Nigerian Army in 1962, trained in the UK, and fought in the Nigerian Civil War, commanding key battalions and sectors during major offensives in the East.

3. Launched the War Against Indiscipline (WAI)
As military ruler, Buhari launched the famous War Against Indiscipline (WAI), a moral rearmament campaign to promote public order, patriotism, and civic responsibility.

4. Known for Authoritarian Rule in the 1980s
His military government was characterized by harsh decrees, press suppression (Decree 4), mass retrenchment, executions for drug offenses, and retroactive application of laws.

5. Chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF)
Under General Abacha in the 1990s, Buhari headed the PTF, which gained public praise for transparency in delivering infrastructural projects across Nigeria.

6. Ran for President Four Times, Won on Fourth Try
Buhari contested the presidency in 2003, 2007, 2011, and finally won in 2015 under the All Progressives Congress (APC), defeating incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan.

7. Focused on Anti-Corruption and Security as President
His civilian presidency prioritized anti-corruption, Boko Haram counter-insurgency, and social welfare schemes like N-Power, though he was criticized for economic mismanagement.

8. Long Medical Absences Marked His Presidency
Buhari’s two-term presidency was marred by frequent medical trips to the UK, including a 104-day absence in 2017 that raised concerns about his health and capacity to govern.

9. Faced Major Protests During Tenure — #EndSARS
In 2020, Buhari’s government faced massive youth-led #EndSARS protests against police brutality, seen as a defining moment of dissent during his rule.

10. Handed Over Power Peacefully and Retired to Daura
On May 29, 2023, Buhari handed over to Bola Tinubu and immediately retired to his hometown of Daura, marking the end of a five-decade public career.