Human rights activist and pro-democracy advocate, Omoyele Sowore, has condemned the legacy of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away today at the age of 82.
Sowore’s sharp criticism stands in contrast to the outpouring of tributes from many political figures who have chosen to celebrate Buhari’s leadership and record in office.
The family of the late president confirmed his death in a statement, disclosing that he died this afternoon at a private clinic in London, United Kingdom, where he had been receiving treatment.
Buhari had battled a prolonged illness, although the specific details of his health condition were never officially made public throughout his years of visible frailty and recurring medical trips abroad.
Born on December 17, 1942, Muhammadu Buhari was a retired Major General in the Nigerian Army. He first emerged on Nigeria’s national stage as the country’s military Head of State, after toppling a civilian government in a coup on December 31, 1983. His military regime lasted until August 27, 1985, when he was overthrown by another military faction.
Three decades later, Buhari returned to national power through democratic elections, winning the presidency in 2015 under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He was re-elected in 2019 and completed his second term in 2023.
His presidency was marked by polarizing assessments — while some praised his anti-corruption campaign, others condemned his administration’s record on human rights, economic management, and national security.
In his reaction to the announcement of Buhari’s death, Sowore alleged that the former president died of blood cancer, specifically leukemia, citing insider sources. He further revealed that Buhari had undergone stem cell therapy in the UK during the early stages of his illness.
Sowore said: “Former Nigerian President and ex-military dictator, Muhammadu Buhari, has reportedly died in a UK clinic. Sources indicate the cause of death was blood cancer (leukemia). Buhari had stem cell therapy when he first became ill.
“His rule, whether as a military head or as a civilian president, inflicted deep wounds on Nigeria’s democracy. His legacy is one of repression, economic misery, insecurity, and religious bigotry.
Throughout his treatment, Nigeria was incurring a daily medical expense of £3,000 for his care in the UK until his death today.”
Sowore’s remarks have reignited public debates about Buhari’s contentious legacy, with many Nigerians reflecting on his impact on the nation’s democratic journey, economy, and social cohesion.