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The death of former President Muhammadu Buhari marks the end of an era in Nigeria’s political history.
As a military ruler turned democratic leader, Buhari's life and presidency were marked by firm convictions, controversies, and a deeply divided national memory. From his military discipline to his democratic rebirth, his life offered Nigeria both moments of hope and disillusionment.
In reflecting on his passing, here are five key lessons Nigeria can draw from his time on the national stage.
1. Integrity Alone Isn’t Enough
When Buhari returned to power in 2015 as a democratically elected president, his greatest selling point was integrity. Tired of years of corruption scandals, Nigerians looked to him as a leader who could finally drain the swamp. However, while Buhari personally maintained a reputation for financial prudence, his administration was marred by allegations of corruption and impunity within his inner circle.
Critics argue that Buhari’s refusal to hold some of his allies accountable undermined the very anti-corruption war he championed. As one political analyst noted, “Buhari was trusted, but his trust in others became a national liability.”
2. A Strongman Approach Can’t Fix Complex Problems
Buhari’s background as a former general shaped much of his governing style. He preferred top-down commands, central control, and loyalty above dissent. While this worked during his military regime in the 1980s, democratic Nigeria in the 21st century required a more inclusive and consultative style.
His handling of national issues, especially insecurity, often seemed slow or disconnected. Many Nigerians felt he was detached from their realities, particularly during the height of farmer-herder clashes, Boko Haram attacks, and later banditry in the Northwest. The lesson? Authoritarian instincts don’t always produce results in democratic settings.
3. Ethnic and Regional Balance Matters in Governance
One of the most persistent criticisms of Buhari’s presidency was the perceived ethnic and regional imbalance in his appointments. Key security and economic positions were dominated by individuals from the North, particularly his native Katsina and the broader Northwest. This fed into growing discontent among southern and Middle Belt communities.
Even former President Olusegun Obasanjo warned that Nigeria was “drifting towards divisiveness and collapse.” Buhari’s administration showed that real unity requires inclusive governance — not just in words, but in action and representation.
4. Communication Is Critical for Leadership
Throughout his presidency, Buhari was often criticized for poor communication. He rarely addressed the nation during crises and often relied on his media aides to speak for him. His long absences due to health challenges, especially in 2017 when he spent over 100 days in the UK, created a vacuum that bred rumors and distrust.
Leadership requires presence not just physical, but emotional and psychological. Nigerians needed a president who would speak directly to them, especially during moments of national tragedy. Buhari’s silence on critical issues often hurt public trust.
5. Legacy Is Shaped by People, Not Power
In the end, Buhari’s death leaves a complex legacy. To some, he was a man of discipline, sacrifice, and unshakable patriotism. To others, he was a distant leader who failed to unify a deeply fractured nation. The truth likely lies somewhere in between.
But one thing is clear: a leader's legacy is not defined by the offices they hold, but by the impact they have on the lives of their people. Buhari had the chance to redefine Nigerian leadership — and while he left some lasting reforms, particularly in infrastructure and digital economy, his administration also left many disillusioned.
As the nation mourns, Nigerians are left with questions about what comes next. But one thing is certain history will continue to dissect Muhammadu Buhari’s life and leadership, and in doing so, hopefully guide future leaders toward a better, more inclusive Nigeria.
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