Former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, is dead.
Justice Muhammad, an indigene of Doguwa in Giade Local Government Area of Bauchi State, reportedly died at a hospital in Saudi Arabia, about two weeks before his 72nd birthday on December 31.
Reacting to the news, Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, commiserated with the family of the late jurist, describing his death as a great loss to the state and the nation.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Mukhtar Gidado, the governor described Justice Muhammad as a venerable jurist whose life and career exemplified dedication to duty, integrity in service, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law.
“It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that His Excellency, Sen. Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, CON, on behalf of his family, the Government and the good people of Bauchi State, joins all Nigerians in mourning the passing of Honourable Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, a distinguished son of our great state, who died today at a hospital in Saudi Arabia after a prolonged illness,” the statement read.
The governor said Justice Muhammad rose through the ranks of the legal profession with diligence and distinction, serving as a Judge of the High Court, Justice of the Court of Appeal, and ultimately a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. He later served as Chief Justice of Nigeria from 2019 to 2022, bringing to the office a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to justice.
“During his illustrious career, Justice Tanko Muhammad was widely respected for his legal acumen, discipline, and significant contributions to the development of Nigeria’s judicial system. His elevation to the national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) attested to his impactful service to the nation.
“Justice Tanko Muhammad exemplified the qualities of a patriotic Nigerian whose life was devoted to the service of justice and the advancement of our great nation. His passing is a profound loss not only to Bauchi State but to the Nigerian judiciary and the rule of law,” the governor said.
Governor Mohammed also prayed that Almighty Allah grant the departed soul Al-Jannatul Firdaus and comfort his family, loved ones, and all who mourn him during this difficult time.
Justice Muhammad’s death comes nearly three and a half years after he abruptly resigned as Chief Justice on June 27, 2022, citing health reasons. His resignation occurred 18 months before his scheduled retirement at the age of 70 on December 31, 2023.
He was Nigeria’s 17th Chief Justice and assumed office in January 2019 following the controversial suspension of his predecessor, Justice Walter Onnoghen.
Justice Muhammad served as Chief Justice for three years and five months. His tenure ended amid a crisis at the Supreme Court, triggered by allegations from 14 justices who accused him of hampering the court’s operations by failing to adequately fund judges’ welfare and critical services, including power supply.
