A newly published biography of Nigeria's former President, Muhammadu Buhari, has ignited fresh national discourse by purportedly providing answers to ten of the most contentious questions that defined his time in office. The late president, who passed away in June 2025, is the subject of a 600-page volume titled 'From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari', authored by Dr. Charles Omole.
Book Launch and Key Revelations
The biography was officially launched at the State House in Abuja on Monday, December 15, 2025, with President Bola Tinubu in attendance. During the event, Dr. Omole highlighted that the book directly addresses pivotal controversies that shaped public perception of Buhari's administration from 2015 to 2023.
According to the author, the work documents Buhari's life from his childhood in Daura, Katsina State, to his final moments at a London hospital. However, its most talked-about aspect is the insight it offers into long-standing mysteries of his presidency.
The Ten Controversial Questions Answered
Dr. Omole listed the ten questions the biography seeks to answer, which have been subjects of intense speculation and debate among Nigerians:
- What was wrong with Buhari during his prolonged illness in 2017-2018?
- What were the internal intrigues behind the sack of Lawal Daura as Director of the DSS?
- What was the role of the so-called 'Cabal' in shaping Buhari's Presidency, and why did they clash with his family?
- What was the Cabal's plan for the APC presidential primaries before it was reportedly thwarted hours before the event?
- How was the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) allegedly captured by the Cabal?
- Was Buhari's signature forged on official documents?
- Were Buhari's office and bedroom bugged for surveillance?
- Were the late president's speeches being swapped before delivery?
- What were Buhari's specific instructions during the #EndSARS protests?
- What was the cause of Buhari's death in July 2025?
Public and Expert Reactions
The revelations have sparked varied reactions from Nigerians. Public affairs commentator, Ahmed Ololu, noted that the book speaks to a deep public desire for transparency regarding the secrecy and power struggles of the Buhari era. He emphasized that such accounts underscore the need for stronger institutions and openness in leadership.
Another respondent, Adetunji Adewolu, reflected on the historical significance, stating, "Heavy questions. Whether people agree or not, these are the conversations history will keep revisiting. Truth always has a way of resurfacing." Meanwhile, a user named Dabs offered a measured critique, calling it an "interesting read" but noting that while some points like the medical absence and CBN issues seemed verified, other claims still required confirmation.
The publication also arrives amid reported political maneuvering, as President Bola Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar are said to be making moves to inherit the political support base left by the late President Buhari, setting the stage for the 2027 presidential race.
By delving into these unresolved issues, the biography of Muhammadu Buhari promises to fuel further analysis and debate about one of Nigeria's most consequential presidencies, challenging historical narratives and seeking to provide closure on debated events.
