Buhari Biography Reveals EFCC, Not CBN, Proposed Naira Redesign Before 2023 Polls
Buhari Biography Reveals EFCC, Not CBN, Proposed Naira Redesign Before 2023 Polls
A new biography of former President Muhammadu Buhari has revealed that the controversial naira redesign policy ahead of the 2023 general elections was proposed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, not the Central Bank of Nigeria CBN.
The book, From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, launched in Abuja on Monday, said the idea was conceived by the then EFCC chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa. The aim, according to the book, was to curb vote buying by limiting access to large amounts of cash before the elections.
The biography explained that the proposal did not originate from the CBN under former governor Godwin Emefiele, as widely believed. Instead, it came from EFCC leadership as a strategy to weaken money politics.
The naira redesign policy was introduced in October 2022 and later caused a serious cash shortage across the country. Many Nigerians faced hardship, and the policy was widely criticised despite being officially presented as a move to promote a cashless economy and reduce illegal activities.
The book said Buhari approved earlier plans to improve local currency production and reduce dependence on foreign printers. It was along this process that the redesign plan later emerged with added political objectives.
The biography quoted former DSS Director General, Yusuf Magaji Bichi, who said the EFCC chairman proposed the policy specifically to stop vote buyers. He added that Buhari supported the idea because of his long standing opposition to money driven politics.
The book also addressed claims that the policy was meant to hurt the ruling party. It stated that Buhari believed the elections would still be won and allowed the process to move forward without interference.
Beyond policy issues, the biography gave personal insights into Buhari’s leadership style. His former Chief Security Officer, Abubakar Idris, described him as disciplined, orderly, and respectful of institutions. He said Buhari avoided gossip, trusted his aides, and allowed them to work without micromanagement.
The book also rejected claims that Buhari was isolated by a cabal, stating that he received daily briefings on security, politics, and the economy.
In her account, former First Lady Aisha Buhari spoke about her husband’s health, saying his challenges were linked to long standing nutrition issues rather than poisoning or conspiracy. She said changes in his routine affected his health during his time in office, but doctors later confirmed the condition was manageable with proper care.
