Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, the former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), has died at the age of 71. Sources say he passed away in a hospital in Saudi Arabia, roughly two weeks before his 72nd birthday on December 31. The death was confirmed on December 16, 2025, in Abuja by the Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS).
- Age: 71
- Place of death: Hospital in Saudi Arabia
- Confirmation: Announced by NAMLAS on Dec. 16, 2025
- Service as CJN: 2019–2022
- Honour: Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON)
The Legacy
Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad left a defining mark on Nigeria’s judiciary during a career built on integrity and restraint. Key highlights of his public service include:
- Chief Justice of Nigeria (2019–2022): He led the Supreme Court through a period of critical decisions, guiding the judiciary with an emphasis on fairness and fidelity to the rule of law.
- National Honour (GCON): A recipient of one of Nigeria’s highest civilian honours, reflecting his contributions to the legal profession and the nation.
- Mentor and educator: Widely remembered for mentoring young lawyers and Muslim law students, he was described as a fatherly figure who encouraged the next generation of jurists.
Social Proof: Reactions and Tributes
The Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS) issued a condolence message calling his death “a monumental loss to the Nigerian judiciary, the legal profession, the Muslim Ummah, and the nation at large.” Their statement invoked the Quranic consolation, “Indeed, to Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return.”
NAMLAS praised Justice Muhammad as a “towering figure of integrity, humility and unwavering commitment to justice,” and extended condolences to his family, the Nigerian judiciary, the Federal Government and the Muslim Ummah while praying for the repose of his soul.
Across legal circles and on social platforms, colleagues and former students paid tribute to his fairness, courage and steady leadership. Many highlighted his patient mentorship and the example he set for judicial restraint and independence.
Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad will be remembered for a career that combined judicial stewardship with personal humility. Further details on funeral arrangements and official tributes from government offices are expected in the coming days.
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