Sowore Lists Four Major ‘Sins’ of Late President Buhari

The death of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has triggered widespread reactions across the country, with many reflecting on the legacy of his time in office. While some Nigerians have taken to social media to pay tribute to the late leader, others have recalled what they describe as the dark sides of his presidency.

Activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has listed four major “sins” of the late president, accusing him of severe human rights violations and authoritarian rule during his time in power. Buhari, who died in London after a brief illness, is expected to be buried today in his hometown, Daura, Katsina State.

In a post shared on his Facebook page, Sowore condemned the late president’s administration, beginning with the killing of members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria. According to him, Buhari “slaughtered hundreds of Shiites, men, women, and even children” during crackdowns by security forces.

He also referenced the widely condemned shooting of peaceful EndSARS protesters at the Lekki Toll Gate in October 2020. Sowore accused Buhari of giving the military the green light to open fire on young Nigerians who were protesting police brutality while holding the national flag.

The third allegation involved the disappearance of Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata—a vocal government critic and social media personality. Idris was abducted from his home in Kaduna in 2019 and has not been seen since. Sowore claimed Buhari’s government was responsible for what he described as a forced disappearance.

Sowore’s fourth accusation was the violent suppression of young people in the Southeast, many of whom the government labeled as members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). He accused Buhari of ordering security forces to carry out deadly crackdowns on this group, leading to further unrest and loss of lives.

In his strongly worded post, Sowore also accused the late president of disobeying court orders, arbitrarily jailing critics, wrecking the economy, and deepening corruption. He dismissed calls to mourn Buhari, saying, “We do not mourn tyrants. We remember their victims.”

Sowore’s comments have added to a growing number of critical reflections from Nigerians who feel Buhari’s leadership left lasting damage. Yoruba nation agitator Sunday Igboho and others have also spoken out, recounting what they view as the many failings of his administration.

As the nation prepares for Buhari’s burial, the debate over his legacy continues to divide public opinion.