𝐀 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐌𝐮𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐮 𝐁𝐮𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐢

The passing of President Muhammadu Buhari was received with shock across Nigeria. Even to his critics, it evoked mixed emotions. The former President lived a life marked by personal integrity and admirable character, acknowledged even by those who opposed him. Personally, my most enduring memory of him will be his democratic administration. It shaped my understanding of governance in Nigeria, especially as someone who grew up with the stories of his character and honesty.

His picture stickers, often inscribed with "Mai Gaskiya" & "General Muhammadu Buhari", were everywhere — on plates, pots, and even torchlights. He was seen far more than just a politician.

During the 2015 general elections, Nigeria was electrified with the anticipation of change. It was a transformative period for our political landscape. As a young citizen which was then ineligible to vote, I was still immersed in the excitement and optimism surrounding the elections. We all wanted for him to win, which he did.

Having secured the highest number of votes, Muhammadu Buhari — once a Head of State during the military era, returned as a democratically elected President under the new APC party, after three previous attempts.

Like many Nigerians, my expectations were high, a hope for a new dawn of national renewal. A few years into his administration, I found myself deeply drawn to understanding how the country was being governed. I followed every update: from Femi Adesina’s briefings to Adamu Sambo’s reports, through the lens of Emmanuel Anrihi and the images by Bayo Omoboriowo. I was attentively watching every move of the Buhari administration.

As a 100-level student at Ahmadu Bello University, 9 PM became my ritual hour at the Kashim Ibrahim Library — not just for studying, but to watch the NTA news. That spot became my favorite. I would also often excuse myself from reading just to catch TVC’s Journalist Hangout at 5pm, a show known for its intense scrutiny of Buhari’s administration.

My interest may have been influenced by community background, family ties and admiration, but over time, I became more critical and conscious. I deliberately sought opposing perspectives. I read through Sahara Reporters & People’s Gazette, listened to the "don Mikiya" radio show, followed Farouq Kperogi’s articles, and even FFK’s tweets, which were really intense for his supporters. This balance shaped the lens I viewed the President. 

To be unanimously seen as indifferent, yet admired for one’s character, speaks volumes about Buhari’s personality. Especially in a political climate where dishonesty has become normalized.

I’ve always had questions I wished to ask him in person. While I never got the chance, his life has, in many ways, even at death, answered some of them.

As a young Nigerian, the lesson I draw from President Muhammadu Buhari’s life is this: beyond the imperfections of our national leadership and the desire to bring about change, we must first build a solid character. Because in the end, if your efforts don’t yield the intended results, people will still remember your intentions, your personality, and your integrity.

As he is laid to rest, I extend my deepest condolences to all Nigerians mourning this loss. Especially to my grandfather, his classmate through Middle and Provincial School, who gave me firsthand accounts of his humility, values, and strength.

May Allah forgive President Muhammadu Buhari "Mai Gaskiya".

Yusuf Usman

July 15th, 2025

Sokoto, Nigeria.