Was Buhari Poisoned in Office? What Aisha Buhari Finally Said

For years, many Nigerians believed that former President Muhammadu Buhari was poisoned while in office. The rumours became louder in 2017 when Buhari spent about five months outside the country on medical leave. 

His long absence raised fears, speculations, and wild stories about what really happened to him.

Now, Aisha Buhari has finally spoken clearly on the issue.

Aisha Buhari clears the air

Aisha Buhari, wife of the late former president, has dismissed claims that her husband was poisoned while he was in office. According to her, Buhari’s illness in 2017 had nothing to do with poisoning or any secret attack.

She explained that the health problem started because Buhari’s normal routine was disrupted. His eating habits and nutrition were not properly managed at the time, and this affected his health badly. 

In her words, there was nothing mysterious about the illness, contrary to what many people believed.

She stressed that the sickness was medical, not political, and certainly not an attempt on his life.

Where she made the revelation

Aisha Buhari made this revelation in a newly released biography titled From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari. The 600-page book was written by Dr Charles Omole and launched at the State House in Abuja on Monday, December 15.

The book takes readers through Buhari’s life, starting from his childhood in Daura, Katsina State, his military and political journey, and up to his final days in a London hospital in July 2025.

Addressing long-standing questions

The biography does more than talk about Buhari’s illness. It also addresses several sensitive and controversial issues that trailed his presidency.

Some of the questions the book answers include what exactly was wrong with Buhari during his illness between 2017 and 2018, the internal power struggles that led to the removal of former DSS boss Lawal Daura, and the influence of the so-called “Cabal” during his time in office.

It also sheds light on claims that his family was sidelined, allegations of forged signatures, reports that his office and bedroom were bugged, and rumours that his speeches were being altered. 

The book even discusses Buhari’s role and instructions during the EndSARS protests, as well as what eventually led to his death in 2025.

Putting the Poison Rumour to Rest

With Aisha Buhari’s clear explanation, the long-running story about Buhari being poisoned while in office appears to have finally been laid to rest. 

Her account presents the illness as a result of health and lifestyle issues, not a hidden plot.

For many Nigerians, this revelation brings closure to one of the most talked-about mysteries of Buhari’s presidency.