A viral video showing residents of Northern Nigeria celebrating the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari has ignited intense reactions across social media.
The footage, now widely shared, emerged just hours after Buhari’s death was officially announced by his longtime spokesperson, Garba Shehu.
The former president reportedly died on Sunday at a private clinic in London following a prolonged illness.
While national mourning might have been expected, the opposite seems to be playing out in parts of the North.
In one of the most shared clips, locals can be seen dancing and chanting joyfully in open spaces, waving hands in celebration instead of grief.
The video was first posted by an X user identified as SALAKO, who expressed shock at the level of public excitement following Buhari’s passing.
His post, which has since gone viral, stated:
“It is only on social media that Buhari is resting in peace. As of now, we’ve not seen any celebratory videos from the South, East, or West, but there’s widespread celebration in the North. I want to see how Arewa Twitter spins this. You cannot gaslight people into mourning.”
The post has reignited longstanding debates about Buhari’s legacy.
While some hailed him as a disciplined nationalist, others blamed his administration for worsening poverty, insecurity, and divisive governance.
Many online users, especially from the South, echoed Salako’s sentiment, arguing that Buhari’s policies marginalized many regions and worsened citizens’ lives.
Others said the North’s reaction simply reflects the reality of Buhari’s disconnect from the masses.
The celebrations have sparked mixed emotions, especially among Buhari’s loyalists, who view the public response as disrespectful. Critics argue, however, that legacy is earned, not forced.
As Nigeria prepares for Buhari’s burial in Daura, Katsina State, the controversy around his death and life continues to divide the nation.
