Yunusa Ahmadu Yusuf, popularly known as Buhun Barkonun, a vocal critic of the #EndSARS protests in October 2020, has died under controversial circumstances during a hotel stay in Abuja.
The 47-year-old, who served as Senior Special Assistant on Community Development to the Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, reportedly passed away days after lodging at a hotel in the Karu-Jikwoyi area of the Federal Capital Territory on Tuesday, September 8, 2025.
According to reports, Yusuf checked into the hotel with a woman identified as Ruth. Throughout his stay, he declined food but consumed large amounts of alcohol.
On the morning of his death, Ruth allegedly bought him an energy drink after noticing his worsening condition.
Shortly after consuming it, Yusuf collapsed into a coma. Despite efforts by Ruth and hotel staff to rush him to a nearby hospital, he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Police have launched an investigation to uncover the exact circumstances surrounding his sudden death.
Yusuf was widely recognized for his outspoken opposition to the #EndSARS movement, which called for the abolition of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and broader reforms to end systemic police brutality in Nigeria.
During the protests, Yusuf led counter-demonstrations in Abuja, claiming the road blockages disrupted economic and social activities.
In a letter to then-Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, he urged protesters to vacate major roads, arguing that the demonstrations had been hijacked and were escalating security risks.
His sudden death has sparked mixed reactions, with some recalling his controversial role during the protests, while others expressed condolences.
The Chairman of AMAC described Yusuf as a “dedicated public servant and bridge builder,” mourning his loss as significant to the community.
