The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad.
Justice Muhammad reportedly passed away in Saudi Arabia, marking the end of a distinguished chapter in Nigeria’s judicial history defined by decades of service at the highest levels of the Bench.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, described the late jurist as a dedicated servant of the Nigerian judiciary who rose through the ranks to attain the nation’s highest judicial office.
According to Osigwe, Justice Muhammad’s career spanned several key judicial institutions, including the Sharia Court of Appeal, the Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court of Nigeria, reflecting steady professional growth and commitment to constitutional responsibility.
“Throughout his service, he contributed meaningfully to the interpretation and application of the law within Nigeria’s constitutional framework,” the statement read.
The NBA noted that as Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Muhammad presided over the Supreme Court during a challenging period in the country’s democratic journey, discharging both administrative and judicial responsibilities associated with the office.
His tenure, the association said, was marked by his role in guiding the work of the apex court and upholding the functions entrusted to him as head of the judiciary.
The NBA extended its condolences to the family of the late Chief Justice, the Supreme Court, the National Judicial Council, the Judiciary, and the broader legal community.
The association also sympathised with the Government and people of Bauchi State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, praying that Almighty Allah grants Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad forgiveness and eternal rest, and gives his family the strength to bear the loss.
Justice Muhammad, the NBA concluded, will be remembered as a jurist who served the Nigerian judiciary at its highest level and played a notable role in the nation’s legal history.
