As former President Muhammadu Buhari marks his 82nd birthday today, Nigerian activist and presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has delivered a scathing critique of the ex-leader, asserting that Buhari’s eight years in power should not be celebrated or met with accolades. According to Sowore, Buhari’s tenure has been marked by severe mismanagement, an economic disaster, and the tragic loss of lives across the country.
In a statement released this morning, Sowore argued that Buhari’s presidency led to catastrophic declines in Nigeria's economic performance, leaving millions of Nigerians in poverty, facing rampant unemployment, and battling inflation that has crippled everyday life. He pointed to Buhari's failure to create lasting economic reforms or provide a clear path to prosperity as central to the suffering of the nation’s citizens.
"The reality of Buhari's time in office was one of economic despair, skyrocketing unemployment, and the dismantling of vital sectors that should have empowered the Nigerian people," Sowore said. "Instead of improving the lives of Nigerians, Buhari’s government oversaw the ruination of businesses, the collapse of essential services, and an economy that only benefited the elite."
Sowore also condemned the former president's handling of the nation's security crisis, particularly the unchecked rise of terrorism, kidnappings, and other forms of violent crime during his tenure. "Buhari's inaction and poor security policies led to the massacre of thousands of Nigerians, including defenseless children, women, and the elderly. His failure to protect the lives of the citizens he swore to safeguard is unforgivable," Sowore declared.
Beyond the economic and security crises, Sowore also highlighted the erosion of democratic institutions, the suppression of opposition voices, and the widespread corruption that thrived under Buhari’s leadership. He added that the former president’s government was marked by increased authoritarianism, stifling free speech, and undermining Nigeria's democratic processes.
“Buhari's presidency should not be remembered with joy or pride,” Sowore stated. “Rather, it should serve as a grim reminder of what happens when leaders abandon the welfare of the people and prioritize their personal interests.”