Former CJN Justice Tanko Muhammad, a respected legal luminary, has died at a hospital in Saudi Arabia just weeks before his 72nd birthday.
Former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Tanko Muhammad, has passed away at a hospital in Saudi Arabia, just two weeks shy of his 72nd birthday on December 31.
Muhammad, a native of Doguwa in Giade Local Government Area of Bauchi State, served as Nigeria’s 17th Chief Justice from 2019 to 2022. He resigned from office on June 27, 2022, citing health reasons, 18 months before his mandatory retirement at age 70.
Reacting to the news, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed described Justice Muhammad as a venerable jurist whose career exemplified dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Mukhtar Gidado, the governor said:
“It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that we join all Nigerians in mourning the sudden passing of Honourable Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, a distinguished son of our great State. He served with diligence and distinction across all levels of the judiciary, culminating in his tenure as Chief Justice of Nigeria.”
Governor Mohammed highlighted Justice Muhammad’s journey through the legal profession—from Judge of the High Court, to the Court of Appeal, and ultimately the Supreme Court—emphasizing his discipline, legal acumen, and significant contributions to the development of Nigeria’s judicial system.
The governor also noted that the national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) awarded to Justice Muhammad reflected his impactful service to the nation. He prayed for Almighty Allah to grant the late jurist Al-Aljannatul Firdaus and comfort his family, loved ones, and all who mourn him.
Justice Tanko Muhammad assumed office as CJN following the controversial suspension of his predecessor, Walter Onnoghen, in January 2019. His tenure was marked by efforts to strengthen judicial discipline and uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s legal system.
His sudden death is being mourned across the country as a significant loss to the judiciary, Bauchi State, and the Nigerian nation.
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