The family of late former Nigerian president, Muhammadu Buhari has revealed how some close associates and aides allegedly influenced government decisions during his tenure.
This was revealed in a new biography, From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, written by Charles Omole and launched in Abuja.
Buhari’s family, including his wife Aisha and children, alongside former senior officials, shared accounts of how certain individuals controlled access to the president and issued directives to government officials without his direct approval.
According to Premium Times, the book explained that this inner circle, which included Buhari’s relative Mamman Daura, his ally Isa Funtua, and his Chief of Staff Abba Kyari, shaped key decisions, from security matters to financial transactions and appointments.
While Daura and Funtua held no official roles, they were reported to have had considerable influence over Buhari, and Kyari’s position as Chief of Staff allowed him to reinforce their directives.
Fatima Buhari, one of the president’s daughters, revealed that she discovered forged documents bearing her father’s signature.
She said that speeches and official orders were sometimes altered without his knowledge.
In one incident, a speech delivered in the United States had been changed without Buhari’s approval, reflecting the level of control exerted by the aides.
Former officials, including a past police chief, confirmed that instructions circulated as presidential orders were often not authorized by Buhari.
This practice extended to security operations, appointments, and even foreign exchange matters involving the Central Bank of Nigeria, causing delays and confusion in governance.
Babagana Monguno, former National Security Adviser, recounted clashes with Kyari and Daura, who reportedly blocked funds even after Buhari had approved them, affecting the functioning of the NSA office.
The book described Buhari as a leader who trusted long-time associates and avoided public confrontations, creating room for misuse of authority.
Buhari’s children frequently acted as intermediaries, presenting facts and correcting misinformation to ensure their father was aware of key issues.
The biography provides a detailed look at the inner workings of Buhari’s administration and the influence of personal networks on governance.