Former First Lady Aisha Buhari has claimed that powerful cabals took control of the presidential villa during the administration of her late husband, former President Muhammadu Buhari. She made the allegations in a newly released book titled From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, launched recently in Abuja.
Aisha said a clique of aides, relatives and insiders manipulated events and information within Aso Rock, undermining the president’s authority. She alleged that some aides planted ideas in Buhari’s mind that she had harmful intentions, leading him to mistrust her. “They said I wanted to kill him,” she recalled, adding that the rumours caused her husband to change his behaviour and restrict access within the villa.
According to the book, the former first lady’s influence over Buhari’s daily routines weakened as palace intrigues increased. She described how staff allegedly sowed discord and created fear, which affected decisions and even Buhari’s personal life. Aisha claimed this inner circle often sidelined her and interfered in governance matters.
The revelations have stirred fresh debate about power dynamics within the presidency during Buhari’s eight‑year rule. Aso Villa, officially known as the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, serves as the president’s residence and the seat of executive authority in Nigeria.
Critics say Aisha’s account sheds light on long‑standing rumours of palace cabals influencing governance. Some political observers argue such internal power struggles can weaken leadership and erode public confidence. Supporters of the former first lady believe her testimony exposes hidden influences that impacted decision‑making at the highest level.
While Aisha’s claims offer a personal perspective on internal villa politics, the broader implications continue to fuel discussions on transparency, influence and authority within Nigeria’s political system.
