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Unfulfilled Campaign Promises
Buhari came to power in 2015 on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), pledging to tackle corruption, eliminate terrorism, revamp the economy, and promote equity. These promises resonated with millions of Nigerians frustrated by the previous administration. However, Buhari's tenure was widely perceived as failing to deliver on these key promises. Many believed that under his leadership, governance became less transparent, corruption persisted at high levels, and economic hardship intensified.
Fuel Subsidy Removal and Economic Impact
One of the most controversial decisions during Buhari’s presidency was the removal of fuel subsidy in his final months in office. Though the administration had continued to fund the subsidy for years despite promising to remove it early on the sudden withdrawal in 2023 led to a dramatic increase in fuel prices. This, in turn, triggered inflation across essential goods and services, further worsening the economic burden on ordinary Nigerians. Critics argue that the subsidy removal was poorly timed, lacked adequate cushioning measures, and disproportionately affected the poor and working class.
Hajj Subsidy Removal and Religious Discontent
Buhari’s government also ended federal subsidies for Hajj pilgrimage for Nigerian Muslims. While the administration argued it was part of efforts to reduce government spending and enforce secular principles, the decision angered many Muslims, particularly in the northern regions, who viewed it as insensitive and selectively applied. The removal was interpreted by some as an attack on religious tradition, especially in a country where religious sentiments run deep and similar policies were not uniformly enforced across faith groups.
Economic Mismanagement and Widespread Poverty
Buhari’s administration was marked by two recessions (2016 and 2020), soaring inflation, and mass unemployment. The Nigerian currency the naira lost substantial value, making imports expensive and reducing purchasing power. Border closures, inconsistent foreign exchange policies, and a perceived lack of economic vision contributed to economic stagnation. Millions of Nigerians fell into poverty, and economic inequality widened under his watch. The cost of food, transportation, and basic goods skyrocketed, forcing many into desperate conditions.
Insecurity and Escalating Violence
Despite his military background and promises to defeat Boko Haram, insecurity worsened under Buhari. While some progress was made in recapturing territory from insurgents in the northeast, new threats emerged and spread rapidly across the country. Banditry, kidnapping, farmer-herder clashes, and mass killings became more frequent in the northwest and central regions. Entire communities were displaced, and rural life was disrupted. Citizens increasingly felt abandoned as security agencies appeared overwhelmed and under-coordinated.
Zaria Massacre
One of the most infamous human rights incidents during Buhari’s tenure was the Zaria Massacre of December 2015, where the Nigerian Army clashed with members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), a Shiite Muslim group. Reports from human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, alleged that over 300 people were killed, including women and children, and many were buried in mass graves. The incident sparked both domestic and international condemnation, but no high-ranking official was held accountable. The continued detention of IMN leader Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky for several years despite court rulings ordering his release also deepened perceptions of religious and political persecution.
Authoritarianism and Suppression of Dissent
Buhari’s administration was frequently accused of suppressing dissent and violating civil rights. The 2020 #EndSARS protests against police brutality ended violently with the alleged shooting of peaceful demonstrators at Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos. Activists, journalists, and critics were arrested or harassed, often under dubious charges. Laws like the social media bill and press restrictions were proposed, further raising fears of democratic backsliding. These actions revived memories of Buhari’s military regime in the 1980s, which was marked by detentions without trial, censorship, and forced discipline.
Perceived Ethnic and Regional Favoritism
Buhari’s presidency was also criticized for promoting a narrow northern agenda, with key appointments disproportionately going to individuals from the north, particularly from his Fulani ethnic group. Southern and Middle Belt communities felt marginalized politically and economically. This perceived favoritism worsened ethnic tensions and eroded the sense of national unity. Calls for restructuring, secessionist agitation, and regional distrust intensified during his tenure.
Leadership Style and Lack of Engagement
Buhari was often seen as unresponsive and detached from the day-to-day struggles of Nigerians. He spent prolonged periods abroad on medical leave, and often failed to address the nation directly during major national crises. This silence especially during tragedies, violent conflicts, and civil protests was viewed by many as a lack of compassion, leadership, or concern.
Conclusion
Buhari’s legacy remains highly contested. While some Nigerians view him as a man of principle and integrity, others remember his presidency as a period of deep national trauma, economic regression, and missed opportunities. The combination of broken promises, controversial decisions like the fuel subsidy and Hajj subsidy removal, incidents like the Zaria Massacre, and perceived authoritarianism have left deep scars. For many Nigerians, forgiveness remains elusive not out of hatred, but because they are still living with the consequences of his administration.
Taskar Afrika