The Nigerian judiciary and legal community have been thrown into mourning following the death of a former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad.
Justice Muhammad was said to have passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 71 while receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Saudi Arabia.
Bala Mohammed, governor of Bauchi state, confirmed Muhammad’s passing in a condolence message issued by Mukhtar Gidado, his special adviser on media and publicity.
“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 reads.
Muhammad served as the substantive CJN from July 24, 2019 to June 27, 2022
Also reacting to the news, the Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS), National Headquarters, issued a condolence statement dated December 16, 2025, describing his death as a monumental loss to the nation.
“Indeed, to Allah we belong and to Him we shall return. His demise is a monumental loss to the Nigerian judiciary, the legal profession, the Muslim Ummah, and the nation at large,” the statement read.
NAMLAS praised the late jurist for his integrity and dedication to justice, noting that throughout his career, he exemplified fairness, courage, and unwavering commitment to the rule of law.
The association also highlighted his mentorship role, describing him as a fatherly figure who consistently encouraged and supported Muslim law students across Nigeria.
Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad served for decades in the Nigerian judiciary before rising to become the Chief Justice of Nigeria. He resigned from office in June 2022, citing ill health.
