MUHAMMADU BUHARI (December 1942 – July 2025)
…People’s Perception About The Man Buhari
A roadside trader in Kano, during a BBC interview once said of Buhari: “We trust Buhari. Even if he does nothing, at least he won’t steal.”
This was a man, mourned by the whole world including China, Germany, the United Kingdom, United States of America, Africa and West Africa.
The former President of the US, Barrack Obama in his tribute said: “President Buhari is a man of integrity. He has a very clear agenda to fight corruption and promote accountability in Nigeria.”
António Guterres, UN Secretary-General noted that: “Buhari was a calm force in a stormy region. His consistency made him a dependable voice on global security and African integration.”
David Cameron, Former UK Prime Minister: “Buhari has taken bold steps to restore confidence of the Nigerian people and international investors in governance,” with Nigeria’s Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, WTO Director-General saying: “Whatever one may think of Buhari politically, his personal discipline and anti-corruption stance are undeniable.”
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Akinwumi Adesina, AfDB President said: “Buhari supported our African financial institutions and defended Africa’s economic dignity.”
William Kumuyi, Spiritual Leader stated: “He was never after money. He lived a simple life, never changed his lifestyle, and was content with what he had.”
President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana: “He was a friend to Ghana, and a stabilizing father-figure on the West African stage.”
Aisha Buhari, Former First Lady: “He lived for Nigeria. And now he rests, fulfilled, in the mercy of his Creator.”
Olusegun Obasanjo, Former President of Nigeria: “We disagreed on policy, but no one can deny Buhari’s honesty. He meant well for Nigeria.”
Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, Former CBN Governor said: “His legacy is the restoration of moral accountability in Government.”
Mr Paul Aleonye
A lawyer based in Abuja said that former late President Muhammadu Buhari disdain for rule of law was condemned in the open Court in a Supreme Court judgement over New Naira policy .
Full panel of seven justices of the Apex Court condemned the late President for disobeying the court interim order that the old N1000 ,N500 and N200 notes remain in circulation alongside with the then newly issued notes.
Justice Emmanuel Agim who delivered the lead judgement said “The President’s disobedience of court order erodes the foundation of democratic governance.”
“When the head of state defies the judiciary, it signals the collapse of Constitutional order and emergency of autocracy in the place”
Former late President Muhammadu Buhari’s authoritarian or rather effort to reform the judiciary by the midnight arrests of alleged six corrupt judges.including the trial of the then Chief Justices of Nigeria Justice Walter Onnoghen, further demonstrates his authoritarian instincts
Disappointedly, none of the judges were jailed on the account of their alleged offence. Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Onnoghen who was humiliated by arraigning him before Code of Conduct Tribunal and convicted for operating account , dragged the matter to Court of Appeal. Surprisingly the Federal Government applied for an out of Court settlement and the matter was resolved, but Onnoghen had lost the post of CJN to Justice Ibrahim Tanko Mahmud .
Even as these appeared glaring, the judiciary silence culture and our African culture of don’t speak evil of a dead man denied the leadership of the judiciary voice to say were it hurt.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun
She urged Nigerians to draw inspiration to late President Muhammadu Buhari dedication to national development.,
She said in tribute that late President Muhammadu Buhari’s life was defined by duty, discipline, and a remarkable consistency of purpose.
“I received with sadness , but with gratitude to God for a life well lived, the news of the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari (1942–2025).
“I commiserate with his immediate family, the government and people of Katsina State, and indeed all Nigerians, on the loss of a statesman who served his country, first as military Head of State, and later as a democratically elected President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“President Buhari’s life was defined by duty, discipline, and a remarkable consistency of purpose. His unwavering commitment to the Nigerian project, despite personal and political setbacks, stands as a lasting testament to his resilience and belief in the nation’s potential. In a time of shifting values, his example reminds us of the importance of perseverance, principles, and public service.
She “urge all Nigerians to reflect on his legacy and draw inspiration from his dedication to national development.and prayed, “May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
The President of Nigeria Bar Association,NBA, Adam Osigwe ,SAN,
Said NBA tribute is enough. What did NBA tribute said: A CHAPTER IN NIGERIA’S HISTORY CLOSES – NBA, PRESIDENT, MAZI AFAM OSIGWE, SAN
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) mourns the passing of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, former President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, the Government, and the People of our dear nation on this great loss.
President Buhari served Nigeria in various capacities, including as a former Head of State and later as a democratically elected President. His contributions to national development, particularly in the areas of anti-corruption and institutional reforms, have etched his name indelibly in Nigeria’s governance landscape. Indeed, the history of our nation’s political development cannot be written without acknowledging his role and influence.
At this solemn time, the NBA calls on all Nigerians to reflect on the enduring values of national unity, public service, and accountability, which the late President often espoused.
We pray for the peaceful repose of his soul and for comfort and strength to his family and loved ones.
May Allah (SWT) grant him Aljanatul Firdaus.
Late President Muhammadu Buhari will be remembered for all his efforts to free the country from corruption, dedication to duty and discipline..
Mr. Abel Udi,Udi,Business Tycoon in Uyo
Buhari’s legacy is a blend of good intentions and underwhelming results. While he acknowledged the completion of major projects like the Second Niger Bridge and the establishment of a few institutions, he believes Buhari ultimately fell short of the expectations many Nigerians had.
“People really believed he would fight corruption head-on. But even after 8 years, corruption grew stronger, right under his nose, we thought a former General would bring discipline and order, but the division, insecurity, and hardship only deepened.”Udi remarked
He added that Buhari’s economic approach did little to empower citizens in a sustainable way.
“Giving people N50,000 is not empowerment. It finishes fast. Government should focus on building an economy where everyone can thrive, not just survive. Let government create enabling environment for Nigerians to thrive.”
Mrs. Donatus, Fruit Seller, Uyo
“He Was Humble, But Surrounded by the Wrong People” –
Mrs. Donatus, who now runs a small fruit business in Uyo, remembers a humble side of the former president. A scene on television where Buhari stooped to pick up a fallen certificate during a public award presentation stayed with her.
“That humility is rare,” she said. “I believe he meant well.”
She benefitted from the N-Power initiative, which gave her the seed money to start her fruit business. But she says Buhari’s administration was betrayed by those he trusted.
“The people under him were corrupt. That’s why things didn’t go well. The dollar rate went mad even up to 1000 to one Dollar, and life became really hard.”
She made a unique suggestion to current leaders: “make value of our currency. Make 1000 naira into 100, in every currency we have, one zero should be crossed out. Let 1000 naira become 100. It will help the economy stabilize and reduce hardship.”
Mr. Daniel Nicholas, Businessman
“We Hoped for Change, But Got More Struggle”
The most striking part of Buhari’s time in office was the contrast between the hope he brought in 2015 and the reality that followed.
“There was a lot of belief. He came in with a clean image, promising to end corruption and tackle insecurity,” he recalled. “But instead, we got more kidnappings, killings, and economic hardship.”
Nicholas recognized that infrastructure improved in some places but noted that such developments didn’t ease everyday suffering.
“As a young man trying to build a life, I didn’t feel the impact. Prices went up, fuel became a nightmare, and fear ruled the roads. That’s what I’ll remember the most.”
Comrade Isaac Olamikan Publisher of Popular News, an Online in Benin City
“Perceptions on Muhammadu Buhari are quite varied. To some, he’s a symbol of discipline, honesty, and commitment to Nigeria’s development. To others, he represented authoritarian tendencies and unfulfilled promises.
“Being a Cult Hero in Northern Nigeria, Buhari had a massive following in northern Nigeria due to his reputation as an honest man. He was often referred to as “Mai Gaskiya” (the honest man).
Buhari was known for his disdain for corruptly acquired wealth and materialism. He emphasized detachment from corruption and extravagance in governance.
” During his presidency, Buhari faced criticism over rising insecurity in parts of Nigeria, a sluggish economy, and increasing national debt. Buhari was seen as emotionally reserved and projected an image of stern seriousness. His silence was a notable aspect of his political dialectics.
“Muhammadu Buhari’s Presidency (2015-2023) was marked by efforts to fight corruption, improve security, and revive the economy. His administration scored some gains against Boko Haram and implemented social investment programs like N-Power”.
City,Mrs Reby Angel Adodo, Prominent business woman in Benin
” Truth is, he wasn’t the best or as good as we now paint him considering our ruined economy and nation, but unfortunately, like they say, when faced with two or more evils, we naturally pick the lesser one. So, on this note I will join others to say he was a good president.
Chief Depark Isiramen, a notable truck driver
Praised the immediate past president for certain reforms,while condemning the present government of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the worst ever in the history of the country.His words ” I think the late Buhari did his best because things were much better unlike the situation now under Tinubu.There is much hunger and poverty in the land now.May God help us”.
Comrade Tony Abolo , a veteran journalist
Having grown through his first coming and with the dismal governance of Goodluck Jonathan, I was so convinced that Buhari was the man for the job to deal with the three major challenges in the polity, Insecurity, Corruption and Indiscipline.
Within Six months of his coming, to my chagrin I saw an incipient and blatant nepotism, a clueless man who could neither understand governance nor the economy. Worse he allowed insecurity to soar and he was blatantly tribal. I saw he could not redeem Nigeria. Inflation soared. The Economy got worse . Corruption was indescribable. He was aloof in managing the economy and the country. Still more painful he was gravely sick but he preferred to be called a President. He made Jonathan look like a Saint.
I was beside myself when he rigged himself back for a second term. And not only did he carry on an usual but showed he was more from Niger than Nigeria. His Fulanisation and love for cows rather than human beings and worse still allowing Tinubu to succeed him showed he was neither a Presidential material nor someone who could move the country higher.
We are worse off now consequent on his laissez faire approach to Governance. He does not deserve the rest he got on leaving office as ideally in a decent country he should be probed and made to pay for his negligence of a sacred duty. I cannot miss him as he meant Nothing to me. His time in Nigeria, this second time would be written as the saddest part of our history. No Nation deserves Buhari!!
Barrister Yomi Ogunlola, legal practitioner
“I just want to congratulate people in and students of the University of Maiduguri that their university has just been named after failure.
People like Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, and so on, who still live in the hearts of the people, how many universities did the Federal Government name after them?
Iyanuoluwa Lawal, Undergraduate
– I don’t know much about the man, Buhari; I just remember that it was during his time that we had this naira redesign thing and cash crunch. That thing killed many Nigerians. We all suffered a lot; some of us survived by God’s grace. The POS people fleeced us, while we still waited for days before we could get our own money to do the needful.
– But one thing I observed is that foods and cost of living were not as high then as they are now.
Abdullahi Saka, restaurant operator
I don’t see the late President Buhari as a bad man. I think he just surrounded his government with people who were not patriotic. I can’t say he embezzled Nigeria’s money, but people apparently stole under his government.
Look at that his CBN governor with all those houses he built in Abuja. Where did he get all that money? And he still was working underground to become president while still a civil servant. We have heard that he should have resigned before trying to do that. And that’s just one example o.
But overall, I don’t think I have problem with Buhari. He was just an old man who wanted to be president; that’s what the all do in nigeria. And he achieved that. But he had many bad people around him.
Alhaji Husaini Yahaya Maikatakwo Secretary Zamfara State Timber Marketers Association of Nigeria
He said when Muhammadu Buhari was alive the northwest and indeed Zamfara State achieved so many things such as peace, unity. He upheld the tenet of Islam and encouraged many to be strong in the religion endearing the love of all Muslim faithfuls.
He described Muhammadu Buhari as a good leader who tried his best to contribute to the progress of Nigeria from a sincere heart.
The Association Secretary condemned the act of those celebrating the demise of the former President and said:
“No one can claim to be perfect whatever you think you are accusing Buhari for, if you are opportune to be in such position, you may do the worst. It very wrong to celebrate the death of a fellow man because it is the way of all flesh, one day every one of us will definitely go the same way”
Achalu Abdulaziz, acting Principal, Leadspring International School Gusau
He said that during the tenure of President Muhammadu Buhari, there was outstanding positive impact on educational sector across the country. The NECO, WAEC Examinations were attended at the right time, both writing and marking the exams. Buhari exercised great interest in the sector causing all to strictly adhere to their duties.
He described Buhari as a servant leader who considered the needs of the people before his own despite the outcome. He did very in infrastructure and roads construction, the railway to mention but a few.
He condemned the act of those publicly celebrating the death of Muhammadu Buhari saying that Nigerians just lost one of their best leaders who led the nation in integrity, concluding that, we should rather mourn than celebrate.
Alhaji Muazu Balarebe Accountant , U Fresh Table Water and Beverage Company Limited, Gusau
Described Muhammadu Buhari as a honest Muslim who was serious in service to Allah and supporting major Islamic activities during his tenure as Nigerian leader.
Balarebe said, as a man, Buhari made several promises during his campaign and was not able to fulfill all through out his eight years in office.
“In Zamfara, he never did any outstanding project and nothing on ground to remember him for.
“On the whole, I would say Buhari was one of the bad leaders of Nigeria. He made promise to end insecurity but at his tenure, insecurity grew higher than expected. He was unable to take charge or control the major sectors of the country.
“His death was never a thing of joy but since God has taken him at this time no one can question God. I and the entire Muslim faithfuls in Zamfara greatly mourn over his demise”.
Mr Akpos Wharere, Yenagoa, Bayelsa
When people died, like former president Mohammadu Buhari what will he be remembered for is good or bad, let the masses judge him especially excruciating and debilitating pains and unimaginable sufferings, insecurity and high price of commodities were unprecedented and nonpareil in the annals of Nigeria history and these call for self examination to all existing and living mortals in and outside the government to take into consideration that what will l be remembered for whenever l exit from planet earth.
Pastor Emmanuel Otolo, Yenagoa
No mortal man is perfect; including late.President Muhamadu Buhari, however,in my personal opinion,I will like to commend his leadership style of zero tolerance for corruption and for promoting discipline among the political class,and of course his infrastructural and human capital development during his eight years as president of Nigeria.
To balance it all,I will also like to use this occasion to express my displeasure over the introduction of hardship and high inflation that existed,which can be traced to the early days of his presidency,where the late President failed to appoint his cabinet members/ministers in the first six months of his reign thereby kept the country and government stagnant,there was no payments and cash flow was not In view,this situation caused a lot of suffering and the Nigeria economy was on stand still as if there was no government in place.
Late President Muhammadu Buhari has had the rare privileged to rule Nigeria twice,first as Military head of State,and as elected president,he came,he saw,and Conquered, the legacies of his works, policies and projects wether good or bad will continue to speak louder and better than anybody’s comments and opinions for a very long time.
May God Almighty Bless his Soul, and may he continue to rest in perfect peace”.
