As the world bids farewell to Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s former president, a striking consensus emerges from voices far and wide: he was a man of rare personal discipline, unwavering integrity, and quiet conviction. In a political climate often defined by flamboyance and patronage, Buhari stood out—sometimes rigid, often controversial, but always deliberate.
From the corridors of power in Washington and London to the roadside stalls of Kano, reactions to his passing reveal a legacy shaped not just by policy, but by personal example.
Barack Obama, who worked with Buhari during a critical period of Nigeria’s democratic transition, once said: “President Buhari is a man of integrity. He has a very clear agenda to fight corruption and promote accountability in Nigeria.” That word—integrity—echoes in nearly every tribute that followed. Buhari’s anti-corruption stance, whether always effective or not, was never performative. It was personal. It defined his identity more than any infrastructure project or economic policy.
António Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, called Buhari “a calm force in a stormy region,” praising his consistency and dependability on matters of global security and African integration. Indeed, in a region marred by political instability, coups, and violence, Buhari’s steady hand—especially in multilateral diplomacy—offered a reassuring presence. He may not have been the most vocal or innovative, but he brought clarity and order to chaos.
David Cameron, the former UK Prime Minister, commended Buhari’s boldness in restoring confidence in governance: “He has taken bold steps to restore the confidence of the Nigerian people and international investors.” Yet, those steps were not without criticism. Buhari’s economic record, particularly during Nigeria’s periods of recession, drew concern. Still, his unwavering stance against financial recklessness earned him the cautious respect of international partners.
Perhaps more interesting is the view from within—those who knew him, opposed him, worked alongside him, or lived under his rule.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, current Director-General of the WTO and a seasoned technocrat in Nigerian politics, acknowledged: “Whatever one may think of Buhari politically, his personal discipline and anti-corruption stance are undeniable.” It’s a sober reminder that while Buhari’s governance style may have lacked dynamism, it possessed a moral clarity that few could contest.
Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, noted that “He supported our African financial institutions and defended Africa’s economic dignity.” Buhari wasn’t just looking inward; he saw Nigeria as an African leader and took that responsibility seriously, especially in protecting the continent’s interests on the global stage.
William Kumuyi, the spiritual leader of the Deeper Life Christian Ministry, gave a rare glimpse into Buhari’s personal life: “He was never after money. He lived a simple life, never changed his lifestyle, and was content with what he had.” In a country where wealth is often flaunted as a status symbol, Buhari’s modesty was both stark and instructive.
Even from Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo came a tribute steeped in regional solidarity: “He was a friend to Ghana, and a stabilizing father-figure on the West African stage.” Buhari’s diplomacy—quiet and firm—helped preserve Nigeria’s influence as a regional powerbroker, even as internal challenges threatened its stability.
The most intimate tribute came from his wife, Aisha Buhari: “He lived for Nigeria. And now he rests, fulfilled, in the mercy of his Creator.” Her words are more than ceremonial; they reflect the personal sacrifices that defined Buhari’s long political journey, from military ruler to democratic president.
Even his political rival, Olusegun Obasanjo, known for his bluntness, offered a concessionary but powerful statement: “We disagreed on policy, but no one can deny Buhari’s honesty. He meant well for Nigeria.” That admission from a man who has critiqued every Nigerian president is telling.
Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the former Central Bank Governor, went further in framing Buhari’s moral contribution: “His legacy is the restoration of moral accountability in government.” Coming from a fellow reform-minded figure, that statement carries significant weight.
And then there’s the voice of the ordinary Nigerian—the Kano roadside trader, who during a BBC interview said: “We trust Buhari. Even if he does nothing, at least he won’t steal.” That sentiment, raw and unfiltered, captures the essence of Buhari’s popularity among the poor and working-class. To them, he was not perfect—but he was incorruptible, and in Nigeria, that is no small virtue.
Finally, from his successor and political ally, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, came this statesmanlike eulogy: “President Buhari was a pillar of integrity and patriotism. He taught us that leadership is not about showmanship, but stewardship.” Tinubu’s words are both tribute and challenge—acknowledging Buhari’s standards while pointing toward the burden of carrying them forward.
