Why Buhari Retained Underperforming Appointees for Eight Years – Aisha Buhari

Why Buhari Retained Underperforming Appointees for Eight Years – Aisha Buhari

Hajiya Aisha Buhari, widow of the late President Muhammadu Buhari, has revealed that her husband retained several underperforming appointees during his eight-year presidency because he feared being perceived as a dictator. The disclosure comes in a new biography, From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, authored by Charles Omole and launched at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Monday.

According to Aisha Buhari, the former president became increasingly cautious about making sweeping cabinet changes and adjustments to his inner circle, concerned that decisive actions could reinforce perceptions of authoritarianism.

She recounted that shortly after assuming office, the political environment shifted significantly, with many long-time allies sidelined and familiar faces reportedly blocked from the presidential villa, some flagged by security operatives despite their role in Buhari’s political rise.

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The former first lady noted that her private concerns over the growing disconnect between Buhari’s administration and its original support base did not lead to significant reforms, prompting her to speak publicly. She described a widening gap between the ideals that powered Buhari’s political movement and the realities of governance, where technocrats and individuals aligned with other interests dominated the inner circle.

“They had money; they had people; but they did not have the power to install a president,” Aisha Buhari said, emphasizing that personal gains such as money, access, and contracts often overshadowed public service, contributing to operational dysfunction within the presidency.

Despite the criticisms, Aisha maintained that Buhari’s inaction was rooted in his desire to avoid being seen as authoritarian. “He had the wrong people in the right places,” she said, adding, “He didn’t change them for eight years.”

The biography offers an intimate look at Buhari’s political decisions, the inner workings of his administration, and the challenges of balancing loyalty, performance, and perception in governance.

Why Buhari Retained Underperforming Appointees for Eight Years – Aisha Buhari