By Adenike Lawal
Former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (retd.), has died at the age of 71.
The respected jurist reportedly passed away on Tuesday at a hospital in Saudi Arabia, just weeks before his 72nd birthday, which would have been on December 31.
Confirmation of his death came through a condolence message issued in Abuja by the Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS).
In the statement, the association described his passing as a profound loss to Nigeria, the judiciary and the legal profession.
NAMLAS said Justice Muhammad was a distinguished jurist whose life and career were marked by integrity, humility and unwavering commitment to justice and the rule of law.
It noted that he served the nation with wisdom and restraint during his tenure as Chief Justice, leaving behind a legacy that would continue to inspire future generations of legal practitioners.
The association also highlighted his role as a mentor and father figure to Muslim law students across the country, noting that he consistently offered guidance, encouragement and moral support to young members of the legal profession.
NAMLAS extended its condolences to the late jurist’s family, the Nigerian judiciary, the Federal Government and the Muslim Ummah, praying for the repose of his soul and asking Allah to grant him Jannatul Firdaus.
