Nigerians are reflecting on a presidency marked by economic hardship, insecurity, and controversial policies.
Following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari at 82, Nigerians are reflecting on a presidency marked by economic hardship, insecurity, and controversial policies. From 2015 to 2023, Buhari’s administration introduced reforms and actions that caused significant distress for many citizens.
Naira redesign
The 2022 currency redesign caused severe cash scarcity. Despite Buhari’s approval and CBN’s justification, Nigerians queued for hours, paid bribes, and suffered to access money.
ASUU strike
In 2022, the Academic Staff Union of Universities went on an eight-month strike, shutting down all public universities. The dispute was rooted in unmet federal agreements.
Twitter ban
Buhari banned Twitter for seven months after the platform deleted one of his tweets.
The government cited national security, but critics saw it as an attack on free speech.
EndSARS protest
The 2020 #EndSARS movement against police brutality ended in violence, with soldiers opening fire at Lekki Toll Gate. FIJ investigations uncovered mass graves of victims.
Closed borders
In 2019, Buhari shut land borders to curb smuggling. The policy led to food inflation that persisted even after the borders reopened.
Recessions and inflation
Under Buhari, Nigeria entered two recessions. The naira fell from N197/$1 to N750/$1, worsening cost of living.
Insecurity
Terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings surged nationwide. The 2022 Abuja-Kaduna train attack and village raids defined growing unrest.
Fuel price hike
Petrol prices rose from N87 to over N185/litre despite continued subsidies, which the government claimed cost trillions.
Crackdown on dissent
Journalists, activists, and protesters faced arrests, media fines, and harassment. Sowore’s 2019 courtroom arrest sparked outrage.
Debt and borrowing
The government borrowed over N23 trillion via Ways and Means, contributing to inflation and debt crises.