Will Buhari's Body Be Flown Home for a Simple Burial?

# The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari: A Reflection on His Life and Leadership Muhammadu Buhari, the former President of Nigeria, passed away at the age of 82 in London. His death marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria's political history, one that has been characterized by both achievements and controversies. This article aims to explore Buhari's life, his political journey, and the impact he had on Nigeria, while also examining the reactions to his passing and the cultural practices surrounding his burial. ## Early Life and Military Career Muhammadu Buhari was born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Nigeria. He was raised in a modest family and attended the primary school in Daura before moving on to the Katsina Provincial Secondary School. His educational journey continued at the Nigerian Military Training College, where he began to forge his career in the military. Buhari's military career took off in 1962 when he was commissioned as a second lieutenant. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a major by the early 1970s. His dedication to service was evident during the Nigerian Civil War, where he served as a logistics officer. This experience not only shaped his military acumen but also solidified his commitment to national service. ## Political Ascendancy: From Military Rule to Democracy ### The First Military Regime Buhari's political career truly began in December 1983 when he led a coup that ousted the democratically elected government of Shehu Shagari. As the head of state, Buhari introduced stringent measures aimed at fighting corruption and improving the economy. His regime was marked by a zero-tolerance policy towards indiscipline, which, while garnering some support, also led to widespread criticism for human rights abuses and censorship. ### Return to Power After being overthrown in 1985 by General Ibrahim Babangida, Buhari spent several years in political obscurity. However, he returned to the political scene in 2002, joining the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and contesting the presidential elections. His perseverance paid off when he was elected as the President of Nigeria in 2015, running on a platform of anti-corruption and economic reform. ## Achievements and Challenges as President Buhari's presidency was marked by several key initiatives and challenges: ### Anti-Corruption Efforts Buhari's administration was heavily focused on fighting corruption, which he deemed a major obstacle to Nigeria's development. His government established the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council and implemented the Treasury Single Account, which aimed to consolidate government revenue and enhance transparency. ### Economic Policies Under Buhari, Nigeria faced significant economic challenges, including a recession due to falling oil prices and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. His administration attempted to diversify the economy by promoting agriculture and local production, but challenges such as inflation and unemployment persisted. ### Security Issues One of Buhari's most contentious issues was his handling of national security, particularly the fight against Boko Haram, a terrorist group that has wreaked havoc in the northeastern part of Nigeria. While there were some successes in reclaiming territories previously held by the group, Boko Haram's resurgence and the rise of banditry in northern Nigeria led to criticism of Buhari's security strategy. ## Buhari's Legacy and Public Perception Buhari's legacy is a complex one. For many, he is seen as a leader who prioritized integrity and patriotism. His supporters often cite his fight against corruption and efforts to stabilize the economy. However, critics point to the human rights abuses during his military regime and the challenges Nigeria continues to face under his leadership. ### Tributes Following His Death Following Buhari's death, tributes poured in from various political figures and citizens. Former President Goodluck Jonathan described Buhari as selfless and dedicated, emphasizing his commitment to Nigeria. Similarly, General Ibrahim Babangida acknowledged Buhari's role as a moral compass, reflecting on his enduring influence even after retirement. ### National Mourning and Funeral Arrangements In response to Buhari's passing, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a seven-day national mourning period. Flags were lowered to half-mast, and a simple burial ceremony was planned in accordance with Islamic traditions. This reflects the respect and honor afforded to Buhari, despite the mixed opinions about his presidency. ## Cultural Practices Surrounding Death and Burial in Nigeria ### Islamic Burial Customs Buhari's funeral arrangements adhere to Islamic customs, which emphasize the importance of prompt burial. According to Islamic teachings, the deceased should be buried as soon as possible, ideally on the same day of death. This practice highlights the significance of respecting the dead and fulfilling religious obligations. ### The Role of Clerics Islamic clerics play a crucial role in guiding the burial process. They offer prayers and lead the funeral rites, ensuring that the customs are observed properly. Cleric Abdullahi Garangamawa mentioned that if Buhari's body arrived in Daura at night, the burial would be postponed until the following morning, as nighttime burials are discouraged in Islamic tradition. ## Conclusion: Reflecting on Buhari's Impact The passing of Muhammadu Buhari serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of leadership in Nigeria. His life journey—from a military officer to a civilian president—reflects the struggles and aspirations of a nation striving for progress. As Nigeria moves forward, the lessons learned from Buhari's tenure will undoubtedly continue to influence the political landscape. What does Buhari's legacy mean for the future of Nigeria, and how will his life experiences shape the next generation of leaders? The answers to these questions will unfold as the nation reflects on the implications of his leadership and the path ahead. ### FAQs #### What were Muhammadu Buhari's major contributions as president? Buhari's major contributions included anti-corruption initiatives, economic diversification efforts, and attempts to improve national security, particularly in the fight against Boko Haram. #### How did Buhari's presidency impact Nigeria's economy? Buhari's presidency saw Nigeria facing significant economic challenges, including a recession triggered by falling oil prices. His administration attempted to diversify the economy through agricultural promotion and local production. #### What customs are followed during Islamic burials in Nigeria? Islamic burials in Nigeria emphasize prompt burial, typically on the same day as death, with specific prayers and rites conducted by Islamic clerics. As we reflect on Buhari's legacy, what lessons can we learn for the future of leadership in Nigeria? #MuhammaduBuhari #Nigeria #LeadershipLegacy