10 Controversial Moments That Defined Buhari’s Presidency in the Digital Age
The late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away at the age of 82, will be remembered not only for his policies and leadership but also for the digital controversies and viral moments that shaped his public image.
Across his two-term presidency (2015–2023), Buhari was often at the center of online debates that defined an era of political discourse, meme culture, and youth-led digital activism in Nigeria. Below are ten defining moments that trended heavily on social media and sparked national and global conversations:
1. ‘Lazy Nigerian Youths’ Remark (2018)
While speaking at the Commonwealth Business Forum in London, Buhari suggested that some Nigerian youths expected benefits in an oil-rich country without working hard. Though he never used the phrase “lazy Nigerian youths,” it quickly became a viral hashtag (#LazyNigerianYouths), triggering widespread backlash and becoming a lasting symbol of discontent among young Nigerians.
2. The ‘Jubril of Sudan’ Conspiracy
Following Buhari’s extended medical leave in 2017, bizarre rumours circulated online alleging that he had died and been replaced by a body double from Sudan named “Jubril.” Though Buhari personally debunked the claim in 2018, the theory lingered in Nigeria’s digital space, fueling endless memes and conspiracy jokes.
3. The Twitter Ban (2021)
In one of the most controversial decisions of his presidency, Buhari’s government suspended Twitter after the platform deleted one of his tweets. The seven-month ban drew global condemnation and highlighted growing concerns over digital censorship and freedom of expression in Nigeria.
4. Border Closure Policy (2019–2020)
To combat smuggling and boost local production, Buhari’s administration shut Nigeria’s land borders. However, the move sparked widespread frustration as food prices soared and businesses suffered, leading to a flood of complaints and criticism online.
5. #EndSARS Protests and Delayed Response (2020)
During the nationwide protests against police brutality, Buhari’s prolonged silence, especially after the Lekki Toll Gate shooting, was widely criticised. When he finally addressed the nation, many felt the speech lacked empathy. The hashtag #WhereIsBuhari became a trending expression of public discontent.
6. Cashless Policy Crisis (2023)
Towards the end of his tenure, the Central Bank’s naira redesign and cashless policy led to severe cash shortages. The resulting chaos caused nationwide protests and became another source of public outrage, both online and offline.
7. “My Wife Belongs to the Kitchen” Remark (2016)
In a press conference alongside German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Buhari responded to criticisms from his wife by saying, “She belongs to the kitchen, the living room, and the other room.” The statement sparked global backlash, with critics accusing him of reinforcing sexist stereotypes.
8. “I Belong to Everybody and to Nobody” Quote (2015)
His inaugural promise of neutrality won initial praise. However, as allegations of bias in appointments and policy emerged, critics often mocked the phrase, using it to highlight perceived contradictions in his governance.
9. Frequent Medical Trips to London
Buhari’s repeated medical visits abroad became a point of contention. Critics used hashtags like #LondonIsCalling to protest the lack of investment in local healthcare, questioning why the nation’s leader sought treatment overseas while hospitals at home were in disrepair.
10. The Rise of “Bubu” Meme Culture
Nicknamed “Bubu” by netizens, Buhari became a staple of Nigeria’s meme ecosystem. From photos of him dozing at events to awkward moments in speeches, the internet transformed him into one of the most meme-worthy presidents in Nigerian history, often using humour to process political disappointment.
Despite being largely absent from social media himself, Muhammadu Buhari became a digital phenomenon — a leader whose every word, silence, and action reverberated online. His presidency may have ended, but his impact on Nigeria’s digital political culture will endure.
