Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s former president who led Africa’s most populous nation through two terms marked by economic challenges and a fierce anti-corruption drive, died Sunday in London. He was 82.
Buhari’s death was announced by his family and confirmed by his longtime spokesperson, Garba Shehu, in a statement posted on social media.
The former leader died in a London clinic after a brief illness, according to the announcement.
“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,” Shehu wrote.
Buhari, a retired major general, first came to power as a military ruler in 1983 after a coup, before being ousted in 1985.
He later returned to office as a democratically elected president in 2015, serving two terms until 2023.
His presidency was defined by efforts to combat corruption, address security threats from Boko Haram and other insurgent groups, and navigate economic headwinds driven by fluctuating oil prices.
Buhari’s strict leadership style and anti-graft campaign earned him both praise and criticism at home and abroad.
His administration also faced scrutiny over human rights concerns and the handling of Nigeria’s complex ethnic and religious divisions.
He is survived by his wife, Aisha, and several children. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
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