Former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Mohammed Lawal Uwais, has passed away at the age of 89.
His death, which occurred in the early hours of Friday, was confirmed by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Ondo State, Dr. Kayode Ajulo.
Justice Uwais served as CJN from 1995 until his retirement in 2006. Renowned for his integrity and commitment to judicial reform, his legacy includes pivotal contributions to the independence and structure of Nigeria’s judiciary.
Following his retirement, he was appointed by the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua to chair the Presidential Electoral Reform Committee. The committee, tasked with proposing reforms to Nigeria’s electoral system, included notable figures such as Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah and human rights lawyer Dr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN).
Born on June 12, 1936, in Zaria, Kaduna State, Uwais studied law in the United Kingdom and was called to the Bar at the Middle Temple, London, in 1963. Over a distinguished career spanning decades, he rose through the ranks of the judiciary, earning respect for his principled leadership and legal expertise.
As CJN, Uwais spearheaded judicial reforms and was instrumental in establishing the National Judicial Council (NJC), a key institution responsible for upholding the independence, discipline, and integrity of Nigeria’s judiciary.
Justice Uwais leaves behind a lasting legacy as one of Nigeria’s most respected jurists.
