Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, dies in Saudi Arabia

Former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (retd.), has passed away on Tuesday morning. He died at a hospital in Saudi Arabia.

His death was also formally acknowledged in a condolence statement issued by the Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS), National Headquarters, Abuja, dated December 16, 2025.

Titled “NAMLAS Condolence Message on the Passing of Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, Former Chief Justice of Nigeria,” the statement described his death as a significant loss to the nation.

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

The association added, “The Nigeria Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS), National Headquarters, Abuja, 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.”

Justice Muhammad, who served as the nation’s Chief Justice before his retirement, was hailed as “a towering figure of integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment to justice.”

NAMLAS noted that throughout his judicial career, he “exemplified the highest ideals of the Bench—fairness, courage, and fidelity to the rule of law.”

“As Chief Justice of Nigeria, he discharged his responsibilities with wisdom and restraint, leaving behind a legacy of service that will continue to guide generations of legal practitioners,” the association added.

Beyond his work on the Bench, Justice Muhammad played a vital mentorship role for young Muslim law students across Nigeria.

“To NAMLAS, the late Chief Justice was more than a jurist; he was a fatherly pillar and a source of encouragement.

His support, moral guidance, and openness to the aspirations of young Muslim legal minds reflected his deep commitment to mentorship and the nurturing of future custodians of justice,” the statement said.

NAMLAS extended heartfelt condolences to his family, the Nigerian judiciary, the government, and the entire Muslim community, offering prayers for the repose of his soul.

They prayed that Allah forgives his shortcomings, accepts his good deeds, and grants him “the highest abode in Jannatul Firdaus.”

Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad served Nigeria’s judiciary for decades, rising to the highest judicial office in the country and leaving behind a distinguished career that shaped key moments in the nation’s legal history.