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The Death of Muhammadu Buhari and the Resurgence of Conspiracy Theories
The death of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday, July 13, 2025, has triggered a wave of public reaction and renewed interest in long-standing conspiracy theories. The 82-year-old leader, who had served two non-consecutive terms as president, was laid to rest in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, two days after his passing. His death marked the end of an era for many Nigerians, but it also brought back old rumors that have persisted for years.
One of the most persistent claims is that Buhari had been replaced by a body double named “Jubril” from Sudan. This rumor gained traction in 2017 when the former leader left Nigeria for an extended medical trip to London. During this time, he handed over power temporarily to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, which led to widespread speculation about his health and whereabouts.
Buhari’s absence from public life for over 100 days caused significant anxiety among Nigerians. Some critics even claimed that Queen Elizabeth II, then the UK’s monarch, sent a condolence letter following his supposed death. Despite assurances from his aides that he was alive and recovering, the government’s tight control over information fueled suspicion and led to various conspiracy theories.
In March 2017, Buhari returned to Nigeria and spoke publicly about his health, admitting that he had never felt so unwell. He revealed that he underwent extensive medical tests and even received a blood transfusion. These revelations provided some clarity but did little to quell the growing doubts surrounding his condition.
When Buhari’s family and close ally Garba Shehu announced his death on July 13, 2025, the news spread quickly across social media. However, not everyone believed the announcement. Some online posts claimed that the Nigerian government had fabricated the news, insisting that Buhari had died during his 2017 medical trip.
A post on a pro-Biafra Facebook page stated: “The Nigerian government can only deceive Nigerians; they can’t deceive Biafrans. Buhari died since 2017, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB have stated it. This is Mazi Nnamdi Kanu Video demonstration in 2017/2018, stated that the man they imposed on Nigeria as a president is an impostor. Nigeria is scam.”
Similar claims appeared on other platforms, suggesting that Buhari had been replaced by an imposter. These assertions were not new, but they resurfaced with renewed vigor following the official announcement of his death.
Fact-Checking the Claims
In response to the resurgence of these claims, fact-checking organizations like Africa Check investigated the allegations. In a report published on July 30, the organization emphasized that there is no new evidence supporting the claim that Buhari died in 2017. It reiterated that the assertion that he was buried in 2017 is false.
Despite these clarifications, the conspiracy theories continue to circulate, particularly among those who distrust the government. Social media has become a breeding ground for misinformation, with users sharing videos, articles, and personal accounts that support the idea that Buhari was never truly alive.
Emotional Reactions to the Death
The death of Buhari also evoked strong emotional responses from his family and supporters. Former first lady Aisha Buhari, along with other family members, expressed their grief publicly. A video of Aisha Buhari weeping during a visit to Buhari’s relatives in London circulated widely, highlighting the deep personal impact of his passing.
Buhari’s funeral was attended by thousands of mourners, many of whom traveled from different parts of Nigeria to pay their respects. His state burial in Daura was a solemn event, marking the end of a long and complex political career.
Legacy and Impact
Throughout his career, Buhari was known for his strict policies, military background, and commitment to governance. His leadership style often sparked debate, but his influence on Nigerian politics remains undeniable. Even after his death, his legacy continues to shape discussions about the country’s future.
As Nigeria mourns the loss of one of its most prominent leaders, the ongoing conspiracy theories serve as a reminder of the challenges associated with misinformation and public trust. While the facts remain clear, the persistence of these claims underscores the need for continued efforts to promote transparency and accountability in public discourse.
