Former President Muhammadu Buhari is currently receiving medical care in London, according to multiple sources.
Buhari, who left office in May 2023 after completing two terms, has been out of the country since April. Sources close to his family say he initially travelled to the United Kingdom for a routine medical check-up. However, he reportedly became ill shortly after arriving.
“There are conflicting reports about when exactly he became unwell,” a source told PREMIUM TIMES. “Some say he fell ill in Nigeria and was flown out. Others insist he only took ill after arriving in London for regular medical checks.”
His longtime spokesperson, Garba Shehu, confirmed the situation.
“Following your enquiry, I wish to state as follows: It is true that the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, is unwell. He has been receiving treatment in the UK.
“You would recall he made it known that he was going for his annual medical check-up. He became ill there, but I am happy to announce to you that he is doing well in his recovery while receiving treatment. We pray for his healthy recovery.”
The specific nature of Buhari’s illness remains unknown. The name of the hospital where he is being treated has also not been disclosed.
This development is expected to spark fresh debate about Buhari’s history of overseas medical treatment while in office. During his presidency, from 2015 to 2023, he made several trips to London for health reasons, drawing public attention and criticism.
His first known trip was in February 2016 for an undisclosed condition. He returned in June of the same year to treat an ear infection, a move that sparked criticism from Nigerian doctors who questioned the sidelining of local medical expertise.
In January 2017, Buhari spent 50 days in London for what was described as routine check-ups. Just months later, in May, he embarked on his longest medical stay — 104 days — which triggered widespread concern about his health and ability to govern.
At one point, reports claimed that an apartment was secured for him near the hospital in central London for easier and more private access.
Sources indicate that the former president’s health had improved after he left office, but it took a turn in April of this year. Since then, he has remained abroad for treatment.
Now aged 82, Buhari retired to his hometown of Daura in Katsina State after stepping down. His continued absence is raising new questions about his condition and when, or if, he plans to return to Nigeria.
As of now, there has been no official comment from the Nigerian government.
