The death of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari on July 13, 2025, marks the end of an era in the nation’s political history.
From a strict military ruler to a democratically elected president, Buhari’s journey was filled with landmark moments that left a deep imprint on Nigeria’s political, economic, and social landscape. Whether revered or criticised, his legacy is undeniable.
Here are ten defining moments that shaped Buhari’s place in history:
1. 1983 Coup: Military takeover and the war against indiscipline
Buhari first came to national prominence when he overthrew the civilian government of President Shehu Shagari on December 31, 1983.
As military head of state, he launched the infamous War Against Indiscipline (WAI), a campaign aimed at restoring order and moral values.
Though praised for its emphasis on discipline, it was also notorious for its harsh methods, including public punishments and press censorship.
2. Detention after Babangida’s coup in 1985
In a surprising turn, Buhari himself was ousted in a bloodless coup led by General Ibrahim Babangida just 20 months later.
He was detained for several years without charges.
This episode marked him as both a wielder and a victim of military politics, deepening his resolve for a return to civilian rule.
3. Buhari’s three failed presidential bids
Between 2003 and 2011, Buhari ran unsuccessfully for president three times under various political platforms—ANPP and CPC.
Each time, he garnered strong support from the North but failed to secure national appeal.
These losses cemented his image as a dogged and determined political figure, unwilling to give up.
4. 2015 victory: First democratic defeat of an incumbent
In 2015, Buhari made history by defeating sitting President Goodluck Jonathan in a landmark election under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
It was the first time in Nigeria’s democratic history that an incumbent lost to an opposition candidate, signalling a major political shift and democratic maturity.
5. Anti-corruption campaign
One of Buhari’s major campaign promises was to fight corruption.
His administration launched high-profile probes and trials, especially targeting former ministers and governors.
While critics accused his anti-graft war of being selective, his government did secure notable convictions and recoveries, including billions of naira looted by public officials.
6. Struggles with Boko Haram and Insecurity
Buhari inherited a raging insurgency from Boko Haram in 2015.
Though his administration reclaimed territories and weakened the group’s territorial hold, insurgency, banditry, and kidnappings persisted throughout his presidency.
His mixed record on security was one of the most debated aspects of his legacy.
7. Economic Recession and the “change” agenda
Under Buhari, Nigeria entered its first recession in 25 years (2016), largely driven by a global oil price crash.
His “Change” agenda promised economic reform and job creation but was met with rising inflation, high unemployment, and increased poverty.
The Naira suffered historic devaluations, fueling criticism of his economic policies.
8. The End SARS protests and Lekki toll gate incident
In 2020, Buhari’s government faced its biggest youth-led civil movement when Nigerians took to the streets to demand an end to police brutality under the #EndSARS banner.
The protest climaxed in the tragic Lekki Toll Gate shooting, which drew international condemnation.
Buhari’s response was widely viewed as slow and unsympathetic, damaging his credibility among young Nigerians.
9. Twitter ban and free speech controversies
In 2021, Buhari’s administration banned Twitter in Nigeria after the platform deleted one of his controversial tweets.
The action, seen by many as an assault on digital freedom and democracy, lasted over seven months and sparked national and international outrage.
It spotlighted Buhari’s authoritarian tendencies even under democratic rule.
10. Peaceful handover and exit in 2023
Despite a turbulent presidency, Buhari earned commendation for overseeing a peaceful transition to his successor, Bola Tinubu, in 2023.
His decision not to interfere in the elections and his quiet retirement from public office earned him praise for respecting democratic norms, contrasting with many African leaders who cling to power.
Conclusion
Muhammadu Buhari’s journey from a military ruler to a two-term democratic president was marked by sharp contrasts, discipline and repression, hope and hardship, loyalty and division.
As Nigeria mourns his passing, the debate over his legacy will continue.
But one thing is clear: Buhari shaped Nigeria in ways few others have, for better or worse.