In a recent statement that sparked widespread debate, former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari claimed that he relies on rental income from one of his houses in Kaduna State to support his living expenses after leaving office. The claim, made during an All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus meeting in Katsina State, left many Nigerians questioning its validity, given Buhari’s known entitlements as a former president and retired military general.
Speaking at the meeting, Buhari stated, “After eight years as a civilian president, I have only three houses; one in Daura and two in Kaduna. I have given one out for renting where I get money for feeding.” He also remarked on the challenges of governing Nigeria, saying, “Nigeria is a difficult country to govern, but most Nigerians are unaware. You will not understand the complexities of leadership and the country itself until you find yourself in the administrative position of the country.”
However, a fact-check by PRNigeria has revealed that the claim is misleading. Investigations show that Buhari is entitled to significant statutory benefits as a former president and retired military officer. According to the Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), former presidents are entitled to a severance pay of N10.54 million, a monthly upkeep allowance of N350,000, and other benefits. Additionally, the Federal Government allocated N13.8 billion in the 2024 budget for the upkeep of former presidents, vice-presidents, and other retired top officials.
Buhari’s 2015 asset declaration further complicates his claim. The document reveals that he owns five homes, two mud houses, farms, an orchard, a ranch with 270 cattle, 25 sheep, five horses, and a variety of birds. He also holds shares in three firms, owns two undeveloped plots of land, and purchased two cars from his savings. While his 2023 asset declaration remains undisclosed, the 2015 records suggest that his rental income is likely supplementary to his other substantial sources of income.
PRNigeria’s findings also highlight that Buhari, as a retired army general, is entitled to a monthly pension exceeding N1 million, in addition to the life pension provided to former heads of state. In 2016, Buhari claimed he did not receive his military pension, but this has not been independently verified.
The fact-check concludes that while Buhari may receive rental income from one of his properties, it is unlikely to be his primary source of livelihood. His statutory entitlements and publicly known assets indicate that he has multiple streams of income, making his claim of relying solely on rental income misleading.
The revelation has reignited discussions about the transparency of public officials and the need for accurate disclosure of assets and income by Nigeria’s leaders. As the debate continues, many Nigerians are calling for greater accountability and clarity from those who have held the nation’s highest office.
@PRNigeria, excluding headline
