Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (retd.), has passed away.
The former head of the Nigerian judiciary died in Saudi Arabia, marking the end of a long and distinguished career in public service.
Justice Muhammad reportedly died in the early hours of Tuesday at a hospital in Saudi Arabia, where he had been receiving medical attention.
News of his death has sparked widespread reactions across Nigeria, especially within legal, judicial, and religious communities.
A senior source confirmed the development, saying, “Ex-CJN Tanko Muhammad is dead. He passed away this morning at a Saudi Arabian Hospital.” The confirmation put an end to growing speculations surrounding his health.
The Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS), National Headquarters, Abuja, also confirmed the death in an official condolence message dated December 16, 2025.
The association described his passing as a major loss to the Nigerian judiciary and the nation as a whole.
“Indeed, to Allah we belong and to Him we shall return,” the statement read.
In its message titled “NAMLAS Condolence Message on the Passing of Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, Former Chief Justice of Nigeria,” the association said the former CJN’s death was deeply painful and far-reaching.
“The Nigeria 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.”
Justice Muhammad was described as a man of integrity, humility, and strong moral character, whose years on the Bench were guided by fairness and respect for the rule of law. His leadership as Chief Justice was marked by restraint, wisdom, and dedication to justice.
According to NAMLAS, his judicial career reflected the highest standards expected of the Bench, noting that his legacy would continue to shape and guide future generations of legal practitioners in Nigeria.
“As Chief Justice of Nigeria, he discharged his responsibilities with wisdom and restraint, leaving behind a legacy of service that will continue to guide generations of legal practitioners,” the statement added.
The association also highlighted his role as a mentor, particularly to young Muslim law students across the country. It said Justice Muhammad was approachable and supportive, offering guidance and encouragement to aspiring legal professionals.
“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 across the country,” the association noted.
Condolences were extended to his family, the Nigerian judiciary, and the country at large, as NAMLAS described the loss as one felt beyond the legal profession.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, the Nigerian Judiciary, the Government and people of Nigeria, and the entire Muslim Ummah,” the statement said.
Prayers were also offered for the late jurist, with the association asking Allah to forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, and grant him “the highest abode in Jannatul Firdaus.”
Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad served Nigeria’s judiciary for decades and rose to the highest judicial office in the country.
His career remains one of the most significant in the nation’s legal history, leaving behind a legacy of service, discipline, and commitment to justice.
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