Introduction
## Who Was Muhammadu Buhari in Nigerian Politics. Muhammadu Buhari was Nigeria’s president from 2015 to 2023 and notably the first Nigerian leader to defeat an incumbent president through a democratic election. Before his presidency, he had a brief military rule in the early 1980s. Buhari’s election in 2015 ended Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s democratic history. His leadership spanned eight years during which Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country with over 200 million people, faced various economic and security challenges. ## What Was Buhari’s Impact According to Official Records. Buhari’s presidency was marked by efforts to combat corruption and improve security, especially against Boko Haram insurgents. According to the Nigerian National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria’s GDP growth averaged around 1.9 percent annually between 2015 and 2023, reflecting economic difficulties linked to fluctuating oil prices and internal instability. However, Buhari’s administration also secured a 10 percent increase in agricultural production by 2020, contributing to food security. Internationally, Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index improved Nigeria’s rank slightly during his tenure, from 136th in 2015 to 120th in 2022, indicating some progress in anti-corruption efforts.
What Does Buhari’s Death Mean for Nigeria’s Leadership
Muhammadu Buhari died in London on July 13, 2025, at age 82, after a prolonged illness, according to a statement from President Bola Tinubu’s spokesperson. Buhari’s passing closes a significant chapter in Nigerian politics, as he was a key figure in transitioning Nigeria toward more competitive elections. President Bola Tinubu, who succeeded Buhari in 2023, now leads Nigeria during a period of political continuity but also growing economic and security concerns. Buhari’s death may prompt reflections on his legacy, particularly his role in establishing peaceful electoral transitions in a country with a history of military coups.
How Did Buhari Change Nigeria’s Presidential Elections
Before Buhari’s 2015 victory, no Nigerian president had unseated an incumbent through the ballot box since independence in
1960. Buhari’s win with 53.96 percent of the vote against Goodluck Jonathan’s 44.96 percent was a landmark event, verified by Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission. This peaceful electoral turnover set a precedent for democratic stability in Nigeria, a country with a history of military coups and election-related violence. Buhari’s success inspired greater voter participation, with turnout rising to 43.65 percent in 2015, compared to 35.65 percent in the previous election cycle. ## What Was Buhari’s Military Background and Its Influence. Muhammadu Buhari first came to power in 1983 as a military ruler after a coup, serving until
1985. His military background influenced his presidential style, often described as disciplined and strict. During his military regime, Nigeria faced economic challenges and human rights criticisms. His later democratic presidency saw a different approach but retained a focus on security and order. Analysts note that Buhari’s military experience shaped his tough stance on corruption and insurgency, although critics argue it sometimes led to authoritarian tendencies within a democratic framework.
How Did Buhari’s Presidency Affect Nigeria’s Economy
Nigeria’s economy under Buhari faced mixed outcomes. Oil, which accounts for over 90 percent of export revenue, suffered price shocks that led to a recession in 2016 and again in 2020 due to global market downturns and the COVID-19 pandemic. The Nigerian Bureau of Statistics reported a contraction of 1.92 percent in GDP during 2016 and a 3.62 percent contraction in
2020. However, Buhari’s administration prioritized diversification efforts, leading to a 12 percent growth in the telecommunications sector and a 15 percent rise in digital financial services by
2022. These sectors became vital as Nigeria adjusted to fluctuating oil revenues.
What Legacy Does Buhari Leave Behind in Nigerian Democracy
Buhari’s legacy lies primarily in his role as a symbol of democratic progress through peaceful electoral change. His 2015 victory was certified by international observers such as the European Union Election Observation Mission, which called the elections credible and transparent. While his administration had challenges, including ongoing security crises and economic volatility, Buhari’s tenure underscored the importance of democratic institutions in Nigeria. His death in 2025 invites evaluation of Nigeria’s strides toward stable governance and the ongoing work needed to consolidate democracy. ## What Are Experts Saying About Buhari’s Leadership and Death. Political experts highlight Buhari’s historic role in Nigeria’s democratic evolution while acknowledging mixed economic and human rights records. Professor Amina Jibril of the University of Lagos states, “Buhari’s election changed the political narrative in Nigeria, proving that incumbents can be held accountable through votes.” Meanwhile, economic analysts emphasize the need to build on Buhari’s diversification initiatives to reduce oil dependence. Buhari’s death also raises questions about Nigeria’s future political direction under President Bola Tinubu and the resilience of democratic institutions amid ongoing regional challenges.
How Will
How Will Buhari’s Death Influence Nigeria’s Political Stability. The passing of a former president who symbolized electoral change may affect national unity and political discourse. Nigeria’s government has called for national mourning and reflection, signaling respect for Buhari’s contributions. Historically, transitions following the death of prominent figures can either unify or polarize societies. Given Nigeria’s large population and complex ethnic landscape, experts suggest that maintaining democratic norms and avoiding power struggles will be crucial to sustaining stability in the coming years. Buhari’s legacy as a leader who ended incumbency dominance remains a benchmark for Nigeria’s political future.
