**Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Passes Away at 82**

The former military leader and president leaves behind a complex legacy interwoven with attempts to address corruption, economic challenges, and persistent security issues in Nigeria.

Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away recently at the age of 82 in a London clinic, is remembered as a prominent figure in Nigeria's tumultuous political landscape. His tenure as president was marked by a blend of military discipline and political reforms, characterized by both admiration and criticism from various quarters.

Buhari was first elected in 2015, making history as the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent in Nigeria. His supporters, particularly among the poorer northerners, hailed his military background as indicative of the discipline necessary to confront the rampant corruption and security challenges facing the nation. He won re-election in 2019 but struggled to fulfill many of the promises that formed the cornerstone of his campaigns.

During his presidency, Buhari faced significant hurdles, notably a continuing decline in global oil prices that led to an economic crisis, alongside a lack of progress against the Boko Haram insurgency. His administration was accused of ineffectiveness in tackling the violent clashes between farmers and herdsmen, heightening tensions and insecurity across the country. Human rights organizations criticized the armed forces for abuses during protests, illustrating a complicated legacy.

Born in December 1942 in the northwestern region of Nigeria, Buhari's military career saw him rise to prominence as he navigated governance through both military rule and later, through democratic processes. His initial time in power as a military ruler from 1983 to 1985 was marked by a controversial campaign against corruption that led to widespread criticism regarding human rights violations.

After transitioning to politics, Buhari's commitment to anti-corruption was continuous, though it did not assuage growing public dissatisfaction, particularly in light of rising costs of basic staples like rice, which became emblematic of his economic policies. His methods for curbing imports saw prices soar, ultimately alienating many of the supporters who once rallied behind him.

The recent 2023 elections presented an intriguing chapter as Buhari exhibited an unusual detachment from the succession of power, fueling internal party tensions and culminating in a controversial currency policy targeting electoral finance.

In his personal life, Buhari's marriages and family life were punctuated with challenges, yet he is survived by his second wife, Aisha, and ten children. His long struggle with health issues resulted in multiple absences from his duties, leaving the public uncertain of his ability to govern.

As Nigeria moves forward, Buhari's contributions, both positive and negative, will surely remain a topic of discourse as the nation reflects on the complexities of leadership in an evolving democratic landscape.