In a solemn announcement on Sunday afternoon, the family of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, confirmed his passing at the age of 82 in a London clinic. The death marks the end of a storied career spanning military rule and democratic leadership.

‘Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilaihirrajiun’: Family Confirms Passing

In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Buhari’s longtime spokesperson Garba Shehu wrote:

“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.”

INNA LILLAHI WA INNA ILAIHIR RAJI’UN.

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.

Signed,
Garba Shehu
13-07-25.

— Bashir Ahmad, OON (@BashirAhmaad) July 13, 2025

There was no immediate mention of the cause of death, though Buhari had reportedly travelled to London for medical attention.

Buhari’s Life Spanning Military and Civilian Rule

Buhari first came to power as military head of state (1983–85) before transitioning into democratic politics, serving two terms as Nigeria’s civilian president from 2015 to 2023. He was widely recognised as the only Nigerian ruler to defeat an incumbent in democratic elections—first with the ANPP, then under the APC banner.

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Public Reaction: A Nation in Mourning

Deep sympathy messages have emerged across Nigeria. Many tweeted heartfelt condolences and praised Buhari’s anti-corruption stance and integrity, while others reflected on his policies—some lauding his fight against graft, others critiquing his economic stewardship.

At home in Katsina State, Buhari’s birthplace, Kano, Lagos, and Abuja, citizens paused to pay tribute, observing moments of silence and communal prayers.

Below are some reactions from Nigerians:

Innalillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’uun💔

May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannah 😭😭💔

— F A A R E E S 💫 🇵🇸 (@MFaarees_) July 13, 2025

May His Soul Rest In Eternal Peace.

— Rokani Lawrence (@Roklawrence) July 13, 2025

From God we came and to Him we return. My family and I pray that Almighty God grants President Muhammadu Buhari al-Jannah firdaus. May his sins be forgiven, and may As-Sami, السميع, (The All-Hearing) grant his family the fortitude to bear their loss. He served Nigeria in… pic.twitter.com/f2suWwRxAn

— Reno Omokri (@renoomokri) July 13, 2025

Muhammadu Buhari Medical Trips to London

Buhari’s final journey to London follows a pattern of medical visits dating back to his presidential terms. While the presidency typically kept details private, many wondered about his wellbeing. However, no confirmed medical updates had been issued since his departure, leaving observers concerned.

Muhammadu Buhari’s Complex Legacy

As Nigeria grapples with this loss, Buhari’s legacy remains mixed—hailed for accountability and stability by some, criticised for economic shortfalls and security challenges by others. But all agree: he will remain a commanding figure in Nigeria’s modern history.

“May the soul of this former head of state rest in perfect peace, and may his legacy spark reflection on our nation’s trajectory ahead,” said a senior APC official, speaking off the record.

With the passing of Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria bids farewell to a leader whose life embodied both military command and democratic resolve. The coming days will see national mourning, reflections on his public service, and an evaluation of his impact on Nigeria’s political landscape.

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