The late Muhammadu Buhari’s presidency left deep scars on Nigeria’s social and economic fabric. Here’s why many Nigerians refuse to “respect the dead” and are speaking their truths.
Respect the Dead? Not Always
“Respect the dead” is a phrase often thrown around to guilt-trip people into silence. But how do you respect the memory of someone whose leadership contributed to the suffering of millions?
When it comes to Muhammadu Buhari’s legacy, honesty is the only way forward — no matter how uncomfortable.
You can’t tell people to mourn a man under whose tenure their lives became a nightmare. You can’t preach dignity in death when Nigerians were stripped of dignity in life.
A Presidency Marked by Controversy and Pain
Buhari’s governance was riddled with policies and actions that left deep wounds on the Nigerian populace. Among the most painful decisions and incidents under his watch were:
- Reintegration of Boko Haram Fighters: Over 600 militants with blood on their hands were brought back into society, while thousands of victims remained forgotten.
- Zaria Massacre: A horrific use of military force that still cries out for justice.
- Illegal Detentions: The prolonged, inhumane detention of Sheikh El-Zakzaky and Sambo Dasuki, despite multiple court orders for their release.
- Lekki Toll Gate Shooting: On October 20, 2020, unarmed protesters demanding an end to police brutality were killed.
- Border Closure: A policy that wrecked countless small businesses and worsened poverty.
- Twitter Ban: A clampdown on free speech that crippled many SMEs relying on social media.
- CJN Onnoghen’s Removal: A controversial act that shook the judiciary’s independence.
- Naira Redesign Crisis: A poorly executed policy that triggered economic hardship overnight.
- The RUGA Policy: A divisive proposal that inflamed ethnic tensions nationwide.
These events are not just political footnotes — they represent the lived trauma of millions of Nigerians.
Pain Is Personal — Let Nigerians Grieve Their Way
When a leader leaves behind such a trail of hurt, people have every right to process that pain however they choose — through mourning, silence, or even anger.
No one should dictate how Nigerians grieve or vent. That, too, is freedom.
For those who find solace in cursing the dead as a way of healing, let them. Buhari’s actions left scars too deep for forced silence to erase.
Why Honesty About History Matters
Honoring the truth about Buhari’s presidency is not about disrespect. It’s about ensuring history doesn’t forget the pain endured — and about holding future leaders to account.
As Nigerians, we owe ourselves honesty — and the freedom to speak our truths.
So mourn, vent, or stay silent. But above all, don’t let anyone shame you into suppressing your lived experience.
End.
Author: Umoh Bassey
This article reflects the author’s opinion and the lived experiences of millions of Nigerians. For editorial contributions, contact our team.
