The former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (retd.), has died at the age of 71.
The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, confirmed the former jurist’s demise in a condolence message issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado.
He said the former CJN died on Tuesday at a hospital in Saudi Arabia after a prolonged illness, describing his death as a profound loss to Bauchi State, the Nigerian judiciary, and the nation at large.
Mohammed noted that Justice Muhammad was a distinguished son of Bauchi State whose life and career were marked by dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law.
“The late jurist was a venerable and accomplished legal icon who rose through the ranks of the judiciary with diligence and distinction, serving as a Judge of the High Court, Justice of the Court of Appeal, Justice of the Supreme Court, and ultimately as Chief Justice of Nigeria from 2019 to 2022. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad exemplified the qualities of a patriotic Nigerian who devoted his life to the service of justice and the advancement of our great nation. His passing is a significant loss, not only to Bauchi State but to the Nigerian judiciary and the rule of law,” the statement read.
According to the governor, Justice Muhammad was widely respected for his legal acumen, discipline, and immense contributions to the growth and development of Nigeria’s judicial system.
He added that the conferment of the national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on the late jurist was a testament to his outstanding service to the nation.
Mohammed extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, his friends, colleagues in the legal profession, and the people of Bauchi State and Nigeria as a whole.
He prayed that Almighty Allah grant the departed soul Al-Jannatul Firdaus and give comfort and strength to his family, loved ones, and all those mourning him.
“May his legacy of service, wisdom, and integrity endure,” the governor prayed.
