```html Former Nigerian Leader Muhammadu Buhari Dies Aged 82

Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has died at the age of 82 in a London clinic. Buhari, a former military ruler who later embraced democracy, served as Nigeria's president from 2015 to 2023. His death marks the end of a long and impactful career in Nigerian politics, characterised by both periods of military rule and democratic leadership.

A Life of Service and Transformation

Buhari's journey began in Daura, Katsina State, in December 1942. He rose through the ranks of the Nigerian military, eventually becoming a military governor and later the head of state following a coup in 1983. His initial rule was marked by a strict "war against indiscipline" and efforts to curb corruption, but also faced criticism for human rights abuses.

After being ousted in a coup in 1985, Buhari transitioned to party politics, reinventing himself as a democrat. Following several unsuccessful attempts, he achieved a historic victory in 2015, becoming the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent president in Nigeria.

Presidency and Legacy

As president, Buhari focused on tackling corruption, improving security, and boosting the economy. However, his tenure coincided with significant challenges, including a slump in global oil prices, economic recession, and persistent insecurity issues, including the Boko Haram insurgency and clashes between farmers and herders.

While Buhari maintained a reputation for personal integrity, his administration faced criticism for its handling of the economy, security challenges, and allegations of human rights abuses by security forces. His policies, such as the ban on rice imports, aimed to boost local production but ultimately led to increased food prices and hardship for many Nigerians.

Security Challenges and Economic Headwinds

Boko Haram remained a potent threat throughout Buhari's presidency, with one faction even aligning with the Islamic State group. Deadly clashes between farmers and herders also escalated, raising concerns about the government's response. Furthermore, the rise of banditry in the northwest led to mass abductions of students, further straining the security apparatus.

Economically, Buhari's administration struggled to navigate the challenges of falling oil prices and a struggling economy. While efforts were made to diversify the economy and create jobs, progress was slow, and many Nigerians experienced increased hardship due to rising inflation and unemployment.

Expert Analysis: A Mixed Legacy

Dr. Amina Salihu, a political analyst at the Centre for Democracy and Development in Abuja, notes that Buhari's legacy is complex and multifaceted. "Buhari's commitment to fighting corruption was undeniable, but the impact was limited by systemic issues and a lack of comprehensive institutional reforms," she says. "His administration also faced significant challenges in addressing the country's security crisis, which ultimately overshadowed some of his achievements."

Professor Adebayo Williams, a historian at the University of Ibadan, adds that Buhari's transformation from military ruler to democrat was a significant turning point. "Buhari's embrace of democracy, while initially met with skepticism, ultimately contributed to the strengthening of Nigeria's democratic institutions," he says. "However, his legacy will continue to be debated and assessed in light of the challenges he faced and the policies he pursued."

Controversial Policies and Public Perception

Buhari's policies were often met with mixed reactions. The "naira swap policy" implemented before the 2023 elections, aimed at curbing vote-buying, caused widespread economic hardship due to a shortage of new notes. This policy, perceived by some as targeting his then-party's candidate Bola Tinubu, sparked public anger and was eventually suspended by the Supreme Court.

His perceived slowness in decision-making earned him the nickname "Baba Go Slow." While Buhari acknowledged the criticism, he attributed it to the slow pace of the system itself.

A Life Remembered

Muhammadu Buhari is survived by his wife, Aisha Halilu, and ten children. His death marks the end of an era in Nigerian politics, leaving behind a complex legacy of military rule, democratic transition, and persistent challenges. His impact on Nigeria will continue to be debated and analyzed for years to come. ```