Army general turned politician. General Buhari who was ousted in a coup in 1985, after persecuting political opponents and introducing a series of autocratic measure, was Nigeria's presidential contender in 2003 election, representing All Nigeria Peoples party. The general is remembered for 'war against indiscipline' he launched to engender civic pride and cut corruption in Nigeria. He has created a popular image of personal frugality, claiming that he lives on a modest military pension in Kaduna in the north - he is from the northern state of Katsina. His softly spoken and courteous manner contrasts with Nigeria's gruff politicians. He made history in March 2015 by becoming the first candidate to oust a sitting Nigerian President through the ballot box. The born again democrat is demonstrate his ability by overcoming his past as a military ruler who seized power in 1983.