Muhammadu Buhari

Major General Muhammadu Buhari led a military coup that overthrew the civilian government of President Shehu Shagari. Buhari cited corruption and economic mismanagement as justifications, and he became the head of state.

Buhari launched the War Against Indiscipline, a campaign to enforce discipline and order in Nigerian society. It included harsh penalties for minor offenses, such as queue-jumping, and was criticized for human rights abuses.

Buhari was overthrown in a palace coup led by his Chief of Army Staff, Ibrahim Babangida. Babangida cited Buhari's authoritarian style and failure to address the economy as reasons for the coup.

Buhari launched a high-profile anti-corruption campaign, targeting government officials and recovering stolen assets. The campaign was praised internationally but criticized for being selective and politically motivated.

Buhari won the 2015 Nigerian presidential election, defeating incumbent Goodluck Jonathan. This was the first time an opposition candidate had defeated a sitting president in Nigeria's history, marking a democratic milestone.