The family of the former president of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari in a statement on Sunday announced his demise, revealing that he passed away in a clinic in London on Sunday afternoon.

his demise has triggered an outpouring of condolences from political leaders who wrote glowingly about his life and administration.

President Bola Tinubu, who took over from Buhari in 2023, was among to first to mourn the former leader, he wrote: “President Buhari was to the very core, a patriot, a soldier, a statesman. His legacy of service and sacrifice endures. He served Nigeria with unwavering dedication, first as a military leader from January 1984 to August 1985, and later as a democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023. Duty, honour, and a deep commitment to the unity and progress of our nation defined his life.

Adding that: “He stood firm through the most turbulent times, leading with quiet strength, profound integrity, and an unshakable belief in Nigeria’s potential. He championed discipline in public service, confronted corruption head-on, and placed the country above personal interest at every turn”

Vice President Kasim Shettima: “President Buhari was one of a kind. He was defined not just by the asceticism of his lifestyle but by his documented refusal to compromise on his values. He served as a ladder for the political ascent of many. To generations of leaders, including myself, he remains the archetype of the principled politician: disciplined, deliberate, and difficult to distract from purpose

“A man of the people, President Buhari’s life was a masterclass in servant leadership. He left office with the same modesty with which he entered it, committed to striking that difficult balance between proximity to the people and fidelity to national ideals.”

Former president Goodluck Jonathan: “President Buhari was a notable leader, patriot, and elder statesman who served our beloved nation as both a military Head of State and President, to the best of his abilities.

“He will be remembered as a courageous leader, a disciplined officer, and a committed public servant who made considerable contributions towards the peace and progress of our dear nation.”

Former Vice President Osinbajo: “Nigeria has lost a true patriot, a man whose life was marked by unyielding devotion to the nation he loved. President Buhari’s legacy will endure as a testament to the nobility of public service, defined by honesty, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the public good.”

Former Vice President of Nigeria Atiku Abubakar wrote: “President Buhari was not just a former Head of State, he was a symbol of Nigeria’s resilience. From the battlefield to the corridors of power, he served with the kind of austere conviction and firm belief in duty that marked him as a soldier of principle and a leader of formidable will.

“His death is not just a loss to his immediate family and the people of Daura, it is a profound national tragedy. Nigeria has lost a statesman who bore the burdens of leadership in both turbulent and triumphant times and whose legacy will be remembered for generations to come.”

Former governor of Kaduna state Nasir El-Rufai: “President Buhari demonstrated remarkable resilience, recovering from his ouster as military head of state in 1985 to emerge as an elected president in 2015. He was rather taciturn but had a sense of humour. He exuded a charm that connected him to ordinary people who cherished him as a symbol of integrity, a man who could be trusted to stand by the people.

Peter Obi: “His death provides a solemn moment, not just for his family and close associates, but for our nation as a whole. President Buhari has always comported himself in a dignified manner as a leader.”

UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed: “Serving as Minister in his government was an honor — and one guided by the values he lived: discipline, humility, and a deep love for our country.”

Nigerian businessman Femi Otedola: “President Buhari was a man of great honour, discipline, and quiet strength. He served Nigeria with unwavering dedication, first as a soldier, later as a statesman. Whether in uniform or in civilian attire, his love for our country was unquestionable.”

The former military ruler turned democratically elected leader died at 82

He served as the:

President (2015-2023)

Military Head of State (1983-1985)

Minister of Petroleum (2015-2023, 1976-1978)

Governor of Borno State (1976)