The former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, has died.
He reportedly passed away in a hospital in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday morning.
The news of his death was also officially acknowledged in a condolence statement from the Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS), national headquarters, Abuja, dated December 16, 2025.
In the statement titled: “NAMLAS condolence message on the passing of Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, former Chief Justice of Nigeria,” the association expressed that his death represents a significant loss for the nation.
“Indeed, to Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return,” the statement noted.
“The Nigeria Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS), national headquarters, Abuja, is deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Honourable Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, former Chief Justice of Nigeria.
“His passing is a tremendous loss for the Nigerian judiciary, the legal profession, the Muslim community, and the country as a whole.”
Justice Muhammad, who served as the chief justice of Nigeria before his retirement, was recognized as “a prominent figure of integrity, humility, and steadfast dedication to justice.”
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According to NAMLAS, throughout his judicial career, he “embodied the highest principles of the Bench—fairness, bravery, and loyalty to the rule of law.”
The statement further remarked that “as chief justice of Nigeria, he fulfilled his duties with wisdom and restraint, leaving a legacy of service that will continue to inspire future generations of legal professionals.”
In addition to his judicial responsibilities, the late jurist was known for mentoring young Muslim law students across the country.
“To NAMLAS, the late chief justice was more than just a jurist; he was a paternal figure and a source of encouragement for Muslim law students nationwide,” the association stated.
“His support, moral guidance, and willingness to nurture the aspirations of young Muslim legal minds reflected his strong belief in mentorship, continuity, and the development of future guardians of justice.”
The association expressed its condolences to his family, the Nigerian judiciary, and the nation.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, the Nigerian judiciary, the government and people of Nigeria, and the entire Muslim community,” the statement concluded, praying that Allah forgives his shortcomings, accepts his good deeds, and grants him “the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus.”
