Nigeria has been thrown into mourning following the death of a former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, who passed away at the age of 71.
Justice Muhammad reportedly died in a hospital in Saudi Arabia, just weeks before his 72nd birthday, which would have been celebrated on December 31. The circumstances surrounding his passing were not immediately detailed, but confirmation of his death has since emerged from credible quarters.
The news was formally confirmed on Tuesday in Abuja through a condolence statement issued by the Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS). In the statement, the association described the former CJN’s death as a profound national loss, particularly to the judiciary and the legal profession.
In a message titled “NAMLAS Condolence Message on the Passing of Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, Former Chief Justice of Nigeria,” the association expressed deep sorrow over his demise.
“Indeed, to Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return,” the statement read.
“The Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students, NAMLAS, National Headquarters, Abuja, receives with profound sorrow the news of the passing of Honourable Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, former Chief Justice of Nigeria.”
NAMLAS further described his death as “a monumental loss to the Nigerian judiciary, the legal profession, the Muslim Ummah, and the nation at large,” noting his decades of service and contributions to the development of Nigeria’s judicial system.
Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad served as Nigeria’s Chief Justice after a long and distinguished career on the bench, during which he earned a reputation for discipline, scholarship, and commitment to the rule of law. His leadership at the apex court came at a critical period in Nigeria’s democratic journey, and his influence on judicial administration remains significant.
Tributes are expected to pour in from across the legal community, political leaders, religious bodies, and the general public as the country reflects on his legacy and service.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be officially announced by the family.
