BREAKING: Ex-CJN, Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, dies at 71

A former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (rtd.), has died at the age of 71.

Justice Muhammad reportedly passed away on Tuesday at a hospital in Saudi Arabia, about two weeks before his 72nd birthday, which would have fallen on December 31.

His death was confirmed in Abuja by the Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS) in a condolence statement.

In the statement titled “NAMLAS Condolence Message on the Passing of Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, Former Chief Justice of Nigeria,” the association described his passing as a monumental loss to the Nigerian judiciary and the nation.

“Indeed, to Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return,” the statement read.

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“The Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students receives with profound sorrow the news of the passing of Honourable Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, former Chief Justice of Nigeria. His demise is a monumental loss to the Nigerian judiciary, the legal profession, the Muslim Ummah, and the nation at large.”

NAMLAS described the late jurist as a towering figure of integrity, humility and unwavering commitment to justice, noting that he exemplified fairness, courage and fidelity to the rule of law throughout his judicial career.

The association said that as Chief Justice of Nigeria, Muhammad discharged his duties with wisdom and restraint, leaving behind a legacy that would continue to guide generations of legal practitioners.

Beyond his service on the Bench, NAMLAS highlighted his mentorship of young Muslim law students across the country, describing him as a fatherly figure and a source of encouragement.

“To NAMLAS, the late Chief Justice was more than a jurist; he was a fatherly pillar and a source of encouragement to Muslim law students nationwide,” the statement added.

The association extended its condolences to the family of the deceased, the Nigerian judiciary, the Federal Government and the Muslim Ummah, while praying for the repose of his soul.

Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad served as Chief Justice of Nigeria from 2019 until his retirement in 2022.

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