Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Dies at 82 in London

The Former Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari has passed away at the age of 82.

His death was confirmed on Sunday evening in a statement issued by his former Special Adviser, 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,” Shehu said.

Buhari, who led Nigeria as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023, also served as the country’s military Head of State from January 1984 to August 1985.

Although the specific illness leading to his death was not disclosed, reports indicate the former president had been undergoing treatment in London in recent days.

His passing has sparked a wave of tributes from across the nation, particularly among political figures. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Buhari’s successor and long-time ally, was among the first to express his condolences.

Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga said in a brief statement: “President Tinubu has spoken with Mrs. Aishat Buhari, the former President’s widow, and offered his deep condolences.” He added that the President had directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the United Kingdom to accompany Buhari’s remains back to Nigeria.

As part of national mourning, President Tinubu also ordered that flags be flown at half-mast in honour of the late statesman.

Born on December 17, 1942, in Katsina State, Buhari was raised by his mother after losing his father at the age of four. He was first married to Safinatu Yusuf in 1971, a union that lasted until 1988. He later married Aisha Halilu in 1989.

He is survived by ten children.

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