Barely nine months after the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday, July 13, 2025, a new chapter appears to be unfolding within the Buhari political dynasty.
In the aftermath of his passing, many wondered whether that would mark the end of his political legacy, and which, if any, of his notably reserved children would step forward to keep his name alive in Nigeria’s political space.
Buhari’s son, Yusuf Buhari, seems to answer this question as he has formally declared his intention to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives in the 2027 general elections, a move that signals a possible continuation of the family’s political journey.
The development, which had trended across social media earlier on Monday, was confirmed by Bashir Ahmad, a former aide to the late president.
In a letter dated April 3 and addressed to political stakeholders, Yusuf said he would be seeking to represent the Sandamu/Daura/Mai’Adua federal constituency under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“I am extremely delighted to inform you of my intention to contest for this position, as I aim to contribute to good leadership and bring development to our people,” he wrote.
Ahmad, in a post on his X account, said the decision followed “wide consultations” with key stakeholders, suggesting that the move had the backing of influential political figures within the constituency.
From Silence to the Spotlight
Since Muhammadu Buhari was elected in 2015 and served two terms in office until he left office in 2023, he did not directly involve his children in politics or appoint them to any political positions.
This stands in contrast to many Nigerian politicians who often bring their children, especially sons, into the political space, as seen with figures like Nasir El-Rufai, Nyesom Wike, Atiku Abubakar, and even Buhari’s successor, President Bola Tinubu, whose sons have leveraged their father’s influence for political advancement.
Yusuf Buhari, 33, the only son among the five children of Aisha Buhari, has largely stayed out of public life, maintaining a low profile even while his father remained a dominant force in Nigeria’s political landscape.
His decision to step into the arena now marks his first significant political move.
But beyond the declaration lies a deeper question: can Yusuf Buhari translate a powerful family name into real political capital?
Buhari’s Political Weight
To understand the significance of Yusuf’s ambition, it is impossible to separate it from the towering legacy of his father.
Muhammadu Buhari was no ordinary political figure. A former military head of state who later reinvented himself as a democratic leader, Buhari contested presidential elections multiple times before eventually winning in 2015 under the APC, defeating an incumbent president, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, for the first time in Nigeria’s history.
His eight-year presidency cemented his status as one of the most influential politicians in the country, with a loyal support base, particularly in the North, despite facing widespread criticism over economic challenges, insecurity, and allegations of human rights abuses.
Even out of office, Buhari retained considerable political weight, with his endorsements and alliances often shaping outcomes within the ruling party.
Legacy or Liability?
Yusuf Buhari now enters politics carrying both the advantages and burdens of that legacy.
On one hand, the Buhari name still commands loyalty in parts of Katsina State, especially in Daura, the family’s hometown. That recognition alone could provide a strong foundation for his campaign.
On the other hand, the expectations are enormous.
Unlike his father, who built his political career over decades, from military leadership to multiple presidential contests, Yusuf is stepping into the political arena without prior experience and without the advantage of his father’s direct influence to propel him forward.
His bid to represent the Sandamu/Daura/Mai’Adua federal constituency under the APC raises questions about whether his candidacy will be driven by personal vision or sustained largely by inherited political structures.
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President Bola Tinubu, Buhari’s predecessor, alongside APC stakeholders in Katsina, including Governor Dikko Radda, are increasingly seen as likely to demonstrate political loyalty to the late former president by backing Yusuf Buhari’s ambition, despite Buhari’s absence.
The unfolding developments suggest growing momentum toward his endorsement, even though, as is often the case in Nigerian politics, final outcomes remain fluid and subject to change.
Sandamu/Daura/Mai’Adua Constituency: A Test of Grassroots Appeal
The Sandamu/Daura/Mai’Adua constituency is known for strong political influence, but elections at this level are often decided by grassroots support rather than name recognition alone.
For Yusuf, the contest will test his ability to connect with voters, build alliances beyond his father’s network, and present a clear agenda that reflects local concerns. His message so far, focused on “good leadership” and “development,” reflects familiar themes, but observers say he must define a clearer political identity.
Reports say stakeholders from Sandamu Local Government Area have endorsed Yusuf Buhari after a high-level meeting, a move reportedly backed by Governor Dikko Radda.
The endorsement has created divisions within the local APC, with growing cracks in Daura over the decision to bypass the sitting representative.
While Hon. Aminu Jamo Daura retains strong grassroots support, Yusuf’s push is being framed by some party leaders as a “collective resolution” to strengthen the party’s future electoral chances.
What Lies Ahead
With the 2027 elections still some distance away, Yusuf Buhari has time to build his political base and shape public perception, but not without a predictable tough contest, as the current constituency holder, Hon. Aminu Jamo Daura, still maintains strong grassroots support according to reports.
But his declaration has already set the stage for what could become one of the most closely watched races for a legislative seat in Katsina State.
At its core, his ambition raises a key question: does Yusuf have the political doggedness to build his own following and do things differently, or is this simply the continuation of an established legacy under a familiar name?
For now, what is certain is that the Buhari political story is still unfolding and far from over.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
