Five revelations about Buhari, five months after his death

A new book on the late former Nigerian president, Muhammadu Buhari, has revealed fresh details about his private life, health and political decisions—five months after his death.

Launched last week, the publication has sparked public debate because it draws heavily on interviews with people close to Buhari, including family members and senior aides.

‘I was accused of plotting to kill Buhari’ – Aisha Buhari

One of the most striking revelations comes from Buhari’s wife, Aisha Buhari, who said she was once accused of planning to kill her husband.

According to the book, Buhari reportedly believed the allegation for about a week and responded by distancing himself from her.

“They said I wanted to kill him,” Aisha Buhari said. “My husband believed them for about a week… he locked his room and changed some of his habits.”

She explained that the lack of contact affected Buhari’s feeding, as he no longer ate the food he was used to.

Buhari’s eating habits and health struggles

Aisha Buhari revealed that before moving into the Presidential Villa, she personally supervised Buhari’s meals to ensure he ate properly.

However, after becoming president, she said his diet was no longer closely monitored.

“There was a time he went a whole year without eating lunch,” she disclosed, adding that Buhari had a long history of inadequate nutrition.

Smoking, pneumonia and the cause of death

The book also addresses long-standing rumours about Buhari’s health, including claims that he was poisoned while in office.

Aisha Buhari dismissed those claims, stating that cigarette smoking in Buhari’s youth contributed to his illness later in life.

She said pneumonia eventually led to his death, while prolonged exposure to cold air-conditioning, years of military service, and old age worsened his condition.

Sabi’u Tunde: the powerful gatekeeper

During Buhari’s eight years in office, Sabi’u Tunde—his nephew and special assistant—was one of the most influential figures around him.

Aisha Buhari said Tunde wielded enormous power, especially over ministers and top government officials.

“He had authority over most ministers,” she said in the book.

Why Buhari did not back Osinbajo for president

Dr Omole also revealed why Buhari did not support his vice-president, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, in the race to succeed him.

“I do not know Osinbajo personally. I know him through Tinubu,” Buhari was quoted as saying.

The author added that Buhari rejected pressure from political allies who opposed Bola Tinubu, insisting on party loyalty and due process.

He also noted that Buhari was displeased that Osinbajo merely informed him of his presidential ambition, rather than consulting him beforehand.