Former President Muhammadu Buhari has stated that he left office in 2023 with the same physical assets he had before assuming Nigeria’s highest political position in 2015. He made the declaration during a conversation with a delegation from the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria, led by Sheikh Abdurrasheed Hadiyatullah, who visited him at his hometown of Daura in Katsina State.
Buhari emphasized that his focus throughout his presidency was on the welfare of the Nigerian people rather than his personal enrichment. According to him, he did not prioritize accumulating wealth while in power. He advised political office holders to place the interests of citizens above their own, insisting that effective leadership depends on selflessness and accountability.
The former president said he had no regrets over the decisions he made during his time in office, adding that he did his best for the country. He mentioned that, despite the enormous challenges faced during his tenure, including economic issues and security threats, he remained committed to serving Nigeria with integrity and discipline.
Buhari noted that he never attempted to acquire material wealth at the expense of the Nigerian people and reiterated that his lifestyle remains modest after leaving office. He said he was content with what he had before his presidency and had not added to his personal possessions during or after his time in power.
The former president’s comments come amid ongoing national concerns about corruption, misuse of public office, and accumulation of wealth by politicians. His statement is likely aimed at reinforcing a narrative of personal integrity and transparency, which he has consistently projected during and after his tenure.
Speaking further, Buhari told the visiting delegation that Nigerians should remain steadfast in their pursuit of a better country. He called on citizens to uphold values of honesty and responsibility, noting that the future of the country depends on collective efforts by both leaders and the general population.
He expressed his appreciation for the visit by the religious leaders and their continued prayers for peace and unity in Nigeria. Buhari acknowledged that religious leaders play an important role in shaping societal values and encouraging moral behavior among citizens.
During his time in office, Muhammadu Buhari, a former military general, championed an anti-corruption agenda and promised to tackle insecurity and revive the Nigerian economy. While his administration recorded some progress in infrastructure development and anti-graft campaigns, it also faced criticism over rising inflation, increasing poverty, and growing insecurity, particularly in the northern part of the country.
After handing over power to President Bola Tinubu in May 2023, Buhari returned to his hometown of Daura, where he has largely stayed out of the public eye. However, he occasionally makes public statements or receives delegations, especially from political and religious circles.
Buhari also reaffirmed his commitment to Nigeria’s unity and development, expressing hope that the country would overcome its current challenges. He urged current leaders to focus on policies that improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians and avoid using public office for personal gain.
The delegation from the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria thanked the former president for his service and described him as a leader who demonstrated humility and dedication. They also prayed for his continued good health and peaceful retirement.
Buhari concluded by encouraging Nigerians to remain united and support the current administration, regardless of political differences. He said that sustainable development requires cooperation from all citizens, not just those in government.
