Buhari’s health condition update confirms he is stable and responding to treatment, despite viral reports claiming he was rushed to ICU. Supporters offer prayers
Buhari’s health condition update has stirred public interest following reports that the former Nigerian president was critically ill and receiving intensive medical treatment in London.
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On Thursday, Bashir Ahmad, former Special Assistant on Digital Communications to Muhammadu Buhari, addressed the circulating rumours on social media.
Ahmad confirmed that Buhari is indeed unwell and is undergoing medical care.
However, he denied claims that the former president had been moved to an intensive-care unit or that his condition had deteriorated significantly.
“It is true that former President Buhari is unwell and is currently receiving medical attention. However, contrary to the exaggerated claims circulating in the media, he is stable and responding well to treatment and we are optimistic about his full recovery,” Ahmad wrote in a post on X.
He also extended gratitude to Buhari’s supporters across Nigeria and the globe, who have shown concern during this period.
“We appreciate the outpouring of prayers and goodwill from his supporters and well-wishers around the world. We continue to pray for his complete and speedy recovery,” he added.
The statement came after a wave of online publications reported that Buhari had been rushed to an ICU in London late last month.
These reports suggested that the 81-year-old former leader had spent several days under close observation before being moved to a private room earlier this week.
The details, however, were not confirmed by the Presidency or members of Buhari’s family.
As of now, there is no official statement regarding the nature of his illness.
The presidency has remained silent, continuing its pattern of discretion regarding Buhari’s health—a practice that dates back to his time in office.
Buhari’s health history has long been a subject of speculation and national concern.
In 2017, during his presidency, he spent 104 days in London undergoing treatment for an undisclosed condition.
During that time, he handed over authority to then-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo in an acting capacity.
He later returned for medical check-ups in 2018 and again in 2021, each time drawing mixed reactions from Nigerians who expressed frustration over the lack of transparency and the cost of the overseas trips.
Analysts note that Buhari’s health challenges were one of the more sensitive topics during his presidency.
His frequent trips abroad for treatment were viewed by critics as reflective of the government’s failure to invest in the country’s healthcare system.
Nevertheless, his loyalists have often defended his decisions, citing the need for specialised care unavailable in local hospitals.
The latest health update has reignited those conversations. However, the clarification from Bashir Ahmad has helped to temper some of the public anxiety.
His statement reassures supporters that the former president remains in stable condition and is expected to recover fully.
Despite his retirement from office in May 2023, Buhari remains a highly influential figure in Nigerian politics.
His health status often sparks reactions across political divides, with many still looking to him as a symbol of northern leadership and elder statesmanship.
With Buhari’s health condition update now confirmed by a close associate, attention shifts to whether an official statement will be released by the former president’s office or family in the coming days.
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Until then, Nigerians continue to monitor developments closely, hoping for clarity and wishing him a speedy return to good health.
