Former First Lady Aisha Buhari has disclosed that the illness which eventually claimed former President Muhammadu Buhari’s life stemmed from irregular feeding patterns and inadequate nutrition management, dismissing speculation about poisoning or unexplained ailments.
Her revelations appear in a newly released 600-page biography titled “From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari,” authored by Dr. Charles Omole and launched at the State House on Monday.
The book chronicles Buhari’s journey from his early years in Daura, Katsina State, through to his final days at a London hospital in mid-July 2025.
According to the biography, Mrs. Buhari had spent years personally managing her husband’s diet and supplements, maintaining a rigorous schedule to address malnutrition concerns and preserve his health.
She emphasised that elderly individuals need “gentle, consistent support,” stressing that regular meals and supplementation were essential to their overall wellbeing.
However, she noted that presidential duties gradually disrupted this careful routine. Meals became irregular or were skipped entirely, supplements were discontinued, and Buhari’s health deteriorated significantly.
This decline necessitated two extended medical visits to the United Kingdom in 2017, totalling 154 days, during which Vice President Yemi Osinbajo assumed presidential responsibilities.
Mrs. Buhari also confronted rumors suggesting she intended to harm her husband—allegations the book indicates Buhari temporarily believed. She explained that such gossip influenced his behavior, prompting him to withdraw socially, alter his routines, and refuse meals.
During his London treatment, medical professionals reportedly prescribed a more intensive supplement regimen. With his wife’s active participation, Buhari’s health improved dramatically.
“After just three days, he discarded the stick he was walking with. After a week, he was receiving relatives,” the biography recounts.
Dr. Omole observes that Buhari’s repeated overseas medical care highlighted critical deficiencies in Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure.
Mrs. Buhari also rejected persistent conspiracy theories, including allegations of poisoning and the supposed use of a body double.
Muhammadu Buhari passed away on July 13 at age 82 and was laid to rest on July 15 in Daura, Katsina State, according to Islamic tradition.
He led Nigeria as president from 2015 to 2023 and previously served as military head of state from January 1984 to August 1985.
