Buhari Presidency Was Ruled By Fear, Suspicion And Paranoia, Sowore Says, Extends Criticism To Tinubu’s Administration

Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has described the late President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration as one driven by fear, secrecy, suspicion and paranoia, arguing that these traits shaped what he called years of dysfunction and poor decision-making. In a statement posted on X, Sowore cited accounts from Buhari’s wife, aides, ministers and family members to support claims that the former president was deeply distrustful and disconnected from governance realities. He further alleged that President Bola Tinubu’s administration represents a continuation of Buhari’s failed legacy. Sowore’s remarks add to longstanding criticisms of Buhari’s tenure, which was marked by economic hardship, insecurity, prolonged medical absences and controversies over transparency and concentration of power.