Former Nigerian president Muhammadu Buhari has died in London at the age of 82 following a prolonged illness, according to a spokesperson for President Bola Tinubu.

Buhari, who led Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, was the first to defeat an incumbent president through the ballot box. A former military ruler, he earned support for his anti-corruption stance and referred to himself as a “converted democrat.”

Despite early hopes, his presidency was marred by economic challenges, worsening insecurity, and delays in governance. He faced criticism for slow decision-making, especially during his first term, and frequent medical absences abroad.

Born in 1942 in Katsina State, Buhari joined the army at 19 and rose to major general. He seized power in a 1983 coup but was overthrown 18 months later. After decades on the political margins, he returned as a civilian leader in 2015, defeating Goodluck Jonathan in what was hailed as Nigeria’s fairest election.

Buhari’s legacy remains mixed, defined by his war on corruption and struggles with insecurity and economic downturns.