A recent statement by former President Muhammadu Buhari regarding how he sustains himself after leaving office has sparked widespread reactions.

During a meeting with the All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus in Katsina, Buhari revealed that he has been living off the income generated from renting out one of his two houses in Kaduna.

The meeting was held ahead of the state’s local government elections scheduled for February 1.

Buhari, who led Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, stated that he feels “better and healthier” than he did while in office. He also dismissed speculations that he accumulated wealth through his position, clarifying that he owns only three houses: one in Daura, Katsina, and two in Kaduna.

While his comments continue to spark discussions on social media, TV personality Ayo Mario-Ese dismissed his claim, emphasizing that Buhari and other former presidents receive 300% of their annual salary as severance pay.

"With all due respect that's actually not very correct because the payout alone after he left office approved by RAMFAC was 300% of his annual salary and we also know the pension allocation for past presidents. So he's not just living off his rental income, he's living quite a very comfortable life funded by the Nigerian taxpayer as a result of him having served in the past," she said.

"Unless he refused to collect pensions or he refused to collect the severance pay. Except he's saying that he refused. But leaders should own it. Some of them oversaw the process of these jumbo payouts for them after the new office and ensured a life that was very comfortable afterward. So as much as they want to put up this persona of I'm humble, I'm not doing anything, taxpayers are funding your life, sir."

Meanwhile, journalist Rufai Oseni questioned Buhari’s claim, asking whether he personally covers his fuel and other living expenses.

"President Buhari should tell us if he's driving his own car, buying his own fuel, or paying for the police and military personnel guarding him. He says he's living on rental income—no problem. Maybe he should try Airbnb. We are waiting for a response," Oseni quipped.