Muhammadu Buhari’s name is engraved deeply into the political history of Nigeria. Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari emerged from humble beginnings to become a two-time leader of Africa’s most populous country—first as a military Head of State (1983–1985) and later as a democratically elected president (2015–2023).
While many remember him for his strong anti-corruption stance and austere personal lifestyle, others criticize his government for widespread insecurity, economic stagnation, and questionable decisions that defined his presidency. In this comprehensive article, we explore both sides of Muhammadu Buhari—his strengths, failures, poor choices, and the lasting impact of his rule on Nigeria’s fragile democracy.
Early Years and Rise to Power
Buhari joined the Nigerian Army at the age of 19 and rose steadily through the ranks, benefiting from Nigeria’s tumultuous political climate. By the time he participated in the military coup of December 31, 1983, Buhari had already established a reputation for discipline, nationalistic ideals, and no-nonsense leadership.
He overthrew the democratically elected government of President Shehu Shagari, citing corruption, mismanagement, and the collapse of public morality. As Head of State, Buhari ruled with a firm hand, introducing policies that earned him both admiration and infamy.
Strengths of Muhammadu Buhari
1. Anti-Corruption Crusader
One of Buhari’s most enduring reputations was as an incorruptible leader. During his military regime, he launched the War Against Indiscipline (WAI)—a campaign that sought to restore moral order, integrity, and accountability in public service. Though criticized for being draconian, it set a tone for zero tolerance to corruption.
As a civilian president, his anti-graft campaign gained traction when he established the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption and empowered the EFCC (Economic and Financial Crimes Commission). Several high-profile individuals, including former ministers and governors, were prosecuted.
2. Frugal and Personally Honest
Unlike many Nigerian leaders known for flamboyance, Buhari maintained a simple, spartan lifestyle. He was widely respected for not amassing obvious personal wealth. His refusal to live extravagantly and his public declaration of assets set an example, even if the system around him did not always reflect his ideals.
3. Infrastructure Development
Despite economic downturns, Buhari’s government invested heavily in infrastructure. Under the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund, projects like the Second Niger Bridge, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, and the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Road saw significant progress. The rail sector also benefited, with the Lagos-Ibadan and Abuja-Kaduna railways being major highlights.
4. Agricultural Revival
Buhari’s Agriculture Promotion Policy (2016–2020) sought to boost local food production. His administration launched the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, through which smallholder farmers accessed credit facilities. Nigeria saw an increase in rice production, reducing import dependence.
Failures and Poor Choices
Despite these strengths, Buhari’s civilian presidency was riddled with systemic failures, poor policy decisions, and missed opportunities that undermined public confidence.
1. Handling of Insecurity: A Nation Under Siege
Under Buhari’s watch, insecurity spiraled out of control. Despite being a former general, his administration failed to decisively address:
- Boko Haram insurgency in the Northeast.
- The rise of Fulani herdsmen and farmer clashes, particularly in Benue, Plateau, and Kaduna.
- Banditry and kidnappings in the Northwest.
- Oil theft and militancy in the Niger Delta.
- The rise of unknown gunmen and IPOB violence in the Southeast.
His government’s response was often seen as reactive, lethargic, and insensitive—especially regarding the Fulani herdsmen crisis. Many accused Buhari, a Fulani man himself, of turning a blind eye to the atrocities committed by armed herders. In states like Benue, hundreds were massacred, with Governor Samuel Ortom repeatedly criticizing the federal government’s silence.
“I expected the President of this country to be the President of every Nigerian, not the President of the Fulani alone.” — Gov. Samuel Ortom, 2018
2. Economic Mismanagement and Recession
Under Buhari, Nigeria entered two major recessions—in 2016 and 2020. His government’s foreign exchange policy, heavily influenced by the Central Bank of Nigeria under Godwin Emefiele, led to multiple exchange rates, stifling investment and encouraging arbitrage.
The controversial border closure (2019–2020), intended to protect local industries, backfired—leading to inflation and scarcity of essential goods.
Unemployment soared under Buhari’s watch, reaching an all-time high of 33.3% in 2021, while youth unemployment became a ticking time bomb. The naira depreciated from ₦197/$1 in 2015 to over ₦740/$1 by the end of his presidency (official rate).
3. EndSARS and Police Brutality
In October 2020, Nigerian youths staged nationwide protests against police brutality, particularly by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). The #EndSARS movement was peaceful until the night of October 20, 2020, when military men opened fire on unarmed protesters at Lekki Toll Gate.
The Buhari government’s silence and denial of the killings drew both domestic and international condemnation. The Lagos State judicial panel later confirmed that the army killed protesters.
“They came and started shooting… blood on the flag.” — DJ Switch, live stream from Lekki Toll Gate
This event marked a turning point in Buhari’s legacy, painting his administration as out-of-touch and authoritarian.
4. Lopsided Appointments and Ethnic Favoritism
Buhari faced constant accusations of nepotism, particularly in his federal appointments. A significant number of top positions—including heads of military, customs, police, DSS, and NNPC—were dominated by northerners, particularly those from the Fulani ethnic group.
In a pluralistic country like Nigeria, this eroded national unity and deepened ethnic tensions.
Related Stories: Real-Life Narratives
The Farmer from Benue
In 2018, Daniel Agbo, a farmer from Guma, Benue, lost his wife and two children in an attack by suspected Fulani herdsmen. His village was burned, and over 70 others were killed in one night. Daniel’s story became symbolic of the failure of Buhari’s government to protect its citizens.
Despite repeated calls from local leaders, the federal government gave no decisive military response, and communities continued to be displaced.
The Youth Who Died at Lekki
A 20-year-old aspiring artist, Anthony Onome, was one of the casualties during the EndSARS protests. His mother, during a tearful interview, asked: “Is this the Nigeria Buhari promised us?” Her voice captured the pain of millions of Nigerian families who felt unheard and abandoned.
Legacy: A Nation Divided
Muhammadu Buhari left office in May 2023, handing over to Bola Ahmed Tinubu, his long-time ally. His departure was met with mixed emotions:
- Supporters celebrated him as a man of integrity, a reformed democrat who restored infrastructural development and fought corruption.
- Critics saw a man whose rigidity, poor economic planning, and ethnic favoritism deepened Nigeria’s woes.
His presidency will be remembered for its complex duality—an honest leader who failed to transform a failing system.
Buhari’s Second Term: A Disappointing Encore?
Buhari was re-elected in 2019, defeating former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in a contest many believed was won more on past hope than present performance. The promise of Next Level—his second term campaign slogan—became a bitter joke for millions who witnessed worsening conditions.
1. Inflation and Cost of Living Crisis
During Buhari’s second term, Nigeria witnessed unprecedented inflation. Basic items like food, fuel, and transportation became unaffordable. In 2022 alone, food inflation hit over 22%, while cooking gas and petrol prices doubled.
Despite being Africa’s top oil producer, Nigeria consistently experienced fuel scarcity under Buhari. The subsidy regime, which he had condemned as wasteful before his election, ballooned to over ₦4 trillion annually by the time he left office—exceeding Nigeria’s education and health budgets combined.
“We sleep with hunger. This is not the change we were promised.” — A trader in Mile 12 market, Lagos, 2022
2. The Central Bank and Economic Crisis
Buhari’s unwavering loyalty to CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele, despite mounting criticisms, left a dent in investor confidence. The naira redesign policy in late 2022 created a national cash crisis. Citizens queued for hours at ATMs, unable to access their money. Businesses suffered. Some Nigerians died due to lack of cash for hospital bills.
Though the policy aimed to reduce vote buying, it was poorly implemented and widely condemned as an economic blunder.
“What happened in those months was a man-made disaster.” — Central Bank insider, 2023
The All Progressives Congress (APC): Strength or Liability?
Buhari came to power under the platform of the APC, a coalition party formed in 2013 to oust the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP). His candidacy united various factions across Nigeria—but after his election, APC became fractured.
1. Internal Party Crisis
The APC under Buhari suffered constant infighting, suspensions, and factional battles. He rarely intervened publicly, a style many interpreted as aloofness or deliberate nonchalance. The Oshiomhole vs. Obaseki feud in Edo, the Tinubu vs. Aso Rock rift, and legislative battles with Senate President Bukola Saraki marked his tenure.
Buhari’s “I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody” mantra often meant he belonged to no conflict resolution either. His passive leadership style weakened the APC’s ideological coherence.
Corruption: The Unfinished War
Despite Buhari’s image as a corruption fighter, his anti-graft campaign lost credibility over time. Several key figures in his cabinet faced allegations:
- Babachir Lawal, former SGF, was indicted in a grass-cutting scandal worth ₦500 million.
- Ibrahim Magu, former EFCC boss, was suspended for allegedly diverting recovered loot.
His administration was often accused of selective prosecution—mostly targeting political enemies while shielding loyalists.
“Corruption didn’t die under Buhari; it wore agbada and walked freely.” — Political columnist, 2022
Human Rights and Press Freedom
Buhari’s regime saw increasing suppression of dissent. Journalists, activists, and social media users were arrested or harassed. Bills like the Social Media Bill and Hate Speech Bill sparked outrage.
- Omoyele Sowore, former presidential candidate and activist, was arrested multiple times.
- Twitter was banned in 2021 for over 7 months after Buhari’s tweet was deleted—costing Nigeria over $250 million in economic losses.
Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch repeatedly flagged human rights violations, including unlawful detentions and military abuses.
The North-South Divide and the “97% vs 5%” Comment
Early in his presidency, Buhari made a controversial statement during a U.S. interview, implying that his government would favor regions that gave him more votes (the North) over those that didn’t (largely the South). The infamous:
“I cannot treat people who gave me 5% the same way I treat those who gave me 97%.”
This quote haunted his presidency and entrenched the narrative of ethnic bias. Critics saw this mindset reflected in project allocations, security appointments, and federal funding.
Buhari’s Family: A Subtle Political Dynasty?
Although Buhari claimed to reject nepotism, his children and relatives quietly occupied influential and privileged roles:
- Yusuf Buhari, his son, was appointed a board member of the Nigerian Tourism Agency in 2021, sparking outrage.
- Aisha Buhari, Nigeria’s First Lady, increasingly influenced government affairs. Her public criticisms of her husband’s government—such as saying “the cabal controls my husband”—gave Nigerians a peek into the opaque power structure in Aso Rock.
How History May Judge Buhari
Buhari’s military-to-democratic journey is rare in African politics. Yet his democratic tenure contradicted many of the principles he claimed to stand for—particularly justice, unity, and leadership by example.
What He Got Right:
- Personal honesty and anti-corruption posture
- Infrastructure development
- Agricultural intervention
- Military upgrades in hardware
What He Got Wrong:
- Economic policy and double recession
- National security and Fulani herdsmen crisis
- EndSARS mismanagement and police brutality
- Ethnic favoritism and lopsided appointments
- Weak engagement with youths and civil society
A Nation in Transition
As Buhari exited the stage, many Nigerians were disillusioned but wiser. His era served as a cautionary tale—that integrity alone does not guarantee good governance. Nigerians now demand more than symbolism; they seek competence, inclusion, innovation, and empathy.
Final Thoughts: The Man Behind the Mask
To understand Muhammadu Buhari is to understand a man of principle but rigidity, conviction but poor communication, honesty but inconsistent judgment. He leaves behind a Nigeria more divided, more indebted, and more uncertain—but also one with clearer eyes about what leadership must mean going forward.
Perhaps Buhari never fully transitioned from a soldier to a statesman. And in the battle between discipline and democracy, he often leaned toward the former, at the cost of the latter.
Conclusion
Muhammadu Buhari is a figure that will remain both admired and criticized in equal measure. His strengths—integrity, frugality, and strong stance against corruption—were often overshadowed by policy missteps, economic downturns, insecurity, and a perceived lack of empathy.
His story is a mirror of Nigeria itself—full of promise, weighed down by missed opportunities, and in dire need of inclusive leadership that listens, protects, and acts swiftly in the national interest.
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