Nigeria mourns as former CJN, Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, passes on at 71

By Bukola Hameed

Nigeria has been thrown into mourning following the death of a former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (retd.), who passed on at the age of 71.

The former head of the Nigerian judiciary reportedly died at a hospital in Saudi Arabia, barely two weeks to his 72nd birthday, which would have been on December 31.

Confirmation of his death came on Tuesday in Abuja through a condolence statement issued by the Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS). In the statement titled “NAMLAS Condolence Message on the Passing of Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, Former Chief Justice of Nigeria,” the association described his demise as a monumental loss to the nation.

“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. His demise is a monumental loss to the Nigerian judiciary, the legal profession, the Muslim Ummah, and the nation at large.”

NAMLAS described the late jurist as a towering figure of integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment to justice, noting that throughout his judicial career, he exemplified the highest ideals of the Bench, including fairness, courage, and fidelity to the rule of law.

According to the association, Justice Muhammad discharged his duties as Chief Justice of Nigeria with wisdom and restraint, leaving behind a legacy of service that will continue to inspire generations of legal practitioners.

Beyond his role on the Bench, NAMLAS highlighted his deep commitment to mentorship, particularly among young Muslim law students across the country.

“To NAMLAS, the late Chief Justice was more than a jurist; he was a fatherly pillar and a source of encouragement to Muslim law students nationwide,” the statement said.

It added that his moral guidance, support, and openness to the aspirations of young Muslim legal minds reflected his belief in continuity and the nurturing of future custodians of justice.

The association extended its condolences to the family of the deceased, the Nigerian judiciary, the government, and the entire nation, as well as the Muslim Ummah.

It also offered prayers for the repose of his soul, asking Allah to forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, and grant him the highest abode in Jannatul Firdaus.