Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Dies at 82: Traditional Leaders Pay Tribute

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has passed away at the age of 82, marking the end of an era in Nigeria’s post-military political history. His death, confirmed by the Nigerian presidency, has sparked an outpouring of tributes, particularly from traditional authorities, many of whom credit Buhari with a legacy of respect and engagement with Nigeria’s cultural institutions.

In a statement issued today, the United African Royal Alliance (UARA), a coalition of traditional leaders across Africa, expressed profound sorrow over Buhari’s death. The statement issued by its president, HRH Prince Estifanos Matewos of Ethiopia, praised the late president for his integrity, humility, and devotion to both national development and the preservation of traditional leadership.

“We recognize and commend his historic role as a steward of public trust and his ability to uphold the sanctity of traditional governance structures while leading a modern democratic nation,” the UARA wrote.

Born in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari first came to power as a military ruler in 1983 before returning as a democratically elected president in 2015. He served two terms, leaving office in 2023.

Throughout his civilian leadership, Buhari was noted for his outreach to traditional rulers, often consulting them on matters of security, cultural cohesion, and local governance. While his administration was sometimes criticized for centralized decision-making, many traditional institutions found in Buhari an ally who respected their role in maintaining Nigeria’s social fabric.

UARA’s statement also highlighted his efforts to incorporate traditional authorities into governance frameworks, particularly in the Northern regions, where emirs and local chiefs have longstanding influence.

“President Buhari’s relationship with our revered institutions remained one of dialogue and mutual respect,” the statement added. “He valued our guidance in community matters and never failed to honor the weight our voices carried.”

The former president had remained largely out of the public eye since leaving office. His death is being mourned across political and cultural divides, with tributes pouring in from national leaders, religious bodies, and international partners.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Buhari’s successor, is expected to declare a period of national mourning, with flags flown at half-mast and a state burial to follow in Daura.

UARA concluded its tribute with a call for future leaders to emulate Buhari’s “conscious engagement with traditional governance structures,” seeing it as key to peacebuilding and inclusive development in Africa.