Nigeria Bids Farewell to Former President Muhammadu Buhari

Daura, Katsina State, Nigeria – Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari was laid to rest on Monday in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, marking the end of an era for a leader who shaped Nigeria's political landscape for decades. Top government officials, traditional rulers, and dignitaries from across the country gathered for funeral prayers at the Daura Eid Ground before the private burial took place at the Buhari family compound.

Buhari, who served as Nigeria's president from 2015 to 2023, passed away after a prolonged illness in a London hospital. His death has prompted a period of national mourning and reflection on his legacy, which is viewed differently across the nation.

A Life of Public Service

Born in Daura in 1942, Buhari's career in public service began in the military. He rose through the ranks to become a military head of state following a coup in December 1983, a position he held until August 1985. His first stint in power was characterized by a focus on discipline and anti-corruption measures, although it also faced criticism for its authoritarian approach.

After years of attempting to return to power through the ballot box, Buhari finally won the presidential election in 2015, defeating incumbent Goodluck Jonathan. His presidency was marked by efforts to combat insecurity, particularly the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast, and to diversify the Nigerian economy away from its reliance on oil. However, his administration also faced challenges related to economic recession, rising inflation, and increased ethnic tensions.

Mixed Reactions to Buhari's Legacy

Reactions to Buhari's passing have been varied, reflecting the complex and often contradictory nature of his political career. While many Nigerians acknowledge his commitment to fighting corruption and improving security, others criticize his handling of the economy and his perceived lack of inclusivity in governance.

"Buhari's legacy will be debated for years to come," said Dr. Amina Mohammed, a political analyst at the Centre for Democracy and Development in Abuja. "He made significant strides in certain areas, particularly in tackling corruption, but his administration also faced considerable challenges, especially in the economic sphere, leading to increased hardship for many Nigerians."

Report Highlights Growing Military Influence in Uganda

Kampala, Uganda – A new report has raised serious concerns about the expanding influence of the Ugandan military across various facets of Ugandan society, warning of potential threats to the country's democratic foundations. The report details how the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) are increasingly involved in politics, the economy, law enforcement, and even cultural and religious affairs.

The investigation, conducted by a team of researchers led by Godber Tumushabe, employed academic frameworks, interviews, and policy analysis to map what it describes as Uganda's "parallel military government." The report paints a concerning picture of the UPDF operating as a partisan force loyal to President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power since 1986.

UPDF's Role in Suppressing Dissent

The report highlights instances where the military has allegedly been used to suppress dissent, influence legislation, and violently quell opposition. The March 2025 Kawempe by-election is cited as a specific example of the military's alleged interference in the political process. The report claims that, despite promises of reform, the UPDF continues to serve as a tool for harassing opposition leaders and ensuring the survival of the current regime.

Erosion of Democratic Norms

The growing militarization of Ugandan society is seen as a significant threat to the country's democratic institutions. The report argues that the UPDF's increasing involvement in civilian affairs undermines the rule of law and erodes public trust in democratic processes.

"The increasing influence of the military in Uganda is a worrying trend that needs to be addressed urgently," stated Dr. Mwangi Kimenyi, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, specializing in African development. "A healthy democracy requires a clear separation of powers between the military and civilian institutions. When the military becomes too involved in politics and the economy, it can lead to authoritarianism and instability."

Historical Context of Military Influence in Uganda

The issue of military influence in Ugandan politics is not new. Museveni's own rise to power in 1986 was through a military struggle. Since then, the UPDF has played a significant role in maintaining his grip on power and in projecting Uganda's influence in the region, including interventions in neighboring countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Somalia. This history contributes to the current concerns about the UPDF's expanding role and its potential impact on Uganda's democratic future.