10 Popular quotes during Buhari’s Presidency

Here are ten memorable, controversial, or defining quotes from Muhammadu Buhari’s presidency, with context and the public’s reaction to each:

1. “I belong to everybody, and I belong to nobody.”
   Context: Buhari said this during his inaugural speech on 29 May 2015.
   Public Reaction: The quote was initially praised as a sign of impartial leadership. However, critics later used it ironically, alleging bias in appointments and governance.

2. “If we don’t kill corruption, corruption will kill Nigeria.”
   Context: A mantra frequently used by Buhari to justify his anti-corruption drive.
   Public Reaction: While it resonated with many Nigerians, critics claimed the war on corruption was selective and politicised.

3. “Nigerian youths are lazy.”
   Context: During a panel discussion at the Commonwealth Business Forum in London (April 2018), Buhari said many Nigerian youths expect free housing, healthcare, and education.
   Public Reaction: The remark sparked national outrage, with many youths on social media defending themselves using the hashtag #LazyNigerianYouths.

4. “What do they mean by restructuring?”
   Context: Buhari said this during an interview, questioning calls for the restructuring of Nigeria’s political and economic systems.
   Public Reaction: The comment drew criticism from advocates of true federalism, who saw it as dismissive of a major national conversation.

5. “…The other room.”
   Context: In October 2016, while responding to criticism from his wife Aisha Buhari, Buhari said she “belongs in the kitchen, the living room, and the other room.”
   Public Reaction: The comment was widely condemned as sexist and trended globally, sparking debates about gender roles in Nigerian society.

6. “I don’t know what subsidy is.”
   Context: Buhari made this statement in an interview during his presidency when asked about Nigeria’s controversial petrol subsidy regime.
   Public Reaction: Many Nigerians were baffled, especially as subsidy remained a major part of his economic policy. It raised concerns about transparency and leadership grasp of key issues.

7. “How can you kill people and say God is great?”
   Context: Buhari said this while condemning acts of terrorism linked to religious extremism, particularly Boko Haram.
   Public Reaction: The statement was seen as a rare emotional and moral condemnation of violent extremism, and received praise from local and international observers.

8. “We have technically defeated Boko Haram.”
   Context: Buhari used this phrase in December 2015, claiming the terrorist group had been degraded.
   Public Reaction: The statement was criticised as premature, given continued attacks by Boko Haram and later ISWAP. It became symbolic of the gap between rhetoric and reality.

9. “Who is the Minister of State for Petroleum?”
   Context: Buhari asked this during a Federal Executive Council meeting, forgetting he held the position himself.
   Public Reaction: The gaffe drew both humour and concern, with critics pointing to signs of cognitive decline and detachment from governance.

10. “I will continue to serve Nigerians to the best of my ability.”
    Context: A recurring line in many of Buhari’s speeches, often used to end public addresses.
    Public Reaction: While some saw it as a statement of dedication, others mocked it as hollow, especially in light of perceived governance failures.