“Fix Nigeria’s Hospitals or Return as Cargo” — Odinkalu Slams Politicians After Buhari’s Death

Following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, Nigerian human rights advocate and lawyer, Chidi Odinkalu, has issued a scathing rebuke of the nation’s political class, condemning their continued neglect of Nigeria’s healthcare system.

In a strongly worded post shared on Sunday, July 13, shortly after news of Buhari’s death in a London hospital was confirmed, Odinkalu wrote:

“Nigeria’s current rulers may need to be reminded: Those who die in foreign hospitals only return to the country as cargo. They don’t pass through @immigrationng they’re cleared through @CustomsNG as imports. If you don’t want this fate, build hospitals that can treat you.”

The activist’s comment highlights the troubling pattern of Nigerian leaders seeking medical treatment abroad while the country’s own health institutions remain underfunded and dysfunctional.

Odinkalu also revisited the December 2015 Zaria massacre, which took place under Buhari’s watch, recalling the mass burial of victims including three sons of Sheikh El-Zakzaky:

“I remember today all the #Shiites killed in the #ZariaMassacre… Their remains were moved in 47 trucks and buried in mass graves in Mando, Kaduna.”

Former President Muhammadu Buhari passed away in London after a prolonged illness. He served as Nigeria’s civilian president from 2015 to 2023, and had earlier led the country as a military head of state between 1984 and 1985.

In his tribute, President Bola Tinubu described Buhari as a patriot and a statesman, ordering national flags flown at half-mast for seven days. Vice President Kashim Shettima and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila have since traveled to London to oversee the arrangements for the return of Buhari’s remains.

According to former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad, the late president will be laid to rest in his hometown, Daura, Katsina State.