The Nigerian legal community and the nation are in mourning following the death of a former head of the judiciary. Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, the immediate past Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), has passed away at the age of 71.
Official Confirmation from Bauchi State Government
The Bauchi State Government officially confirmed the sad news in a statement released on Tuesday, December 17, 2025. The announcement was made by Comrade Mukhtar Gidado, the Special Adviser on Media Affairs to Governor Bala Mohammed.
According to the government, the former CJN died in a hospital located in Saudi Arabia after battling a prolonged illness. His death comes barely two weeks before his 72nd birthday, which he would have celebrated on December 31.
In the statement, Governor Bala Mohammed described the late Justice Muhammad as a distinguished son of Bauchi State and a jurist of impeccable character. He highlighted the former CJN's career as an epitome of integrity, dedicated service, and an unshaken commitment to the rule of law.
Tributes from the Legal Community
The Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS) also issued a separate condolence message from Abuja, describing his passing as a profound national loss.
In their statement titled "NAMLAS Condolence Message on the Passing of Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad," the association praised him as a towering figure of integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment to justice.
NAMLAS noted that throughout his service on the Bench, Justice Muhammad embodied fairness, courage, and fidelity to the law. The association stated that as Chief Justice, he discharged his immense responsibilities with notable wisdom and restraint, leaving behind a legacy that will guide future generations of legal practitioners.
Mentor and Pillar for Young Lawyers
Beyond his official duties, the late jurist was celebrated for his role in mentoring the next generation. NAMLAS emphasized that to them, the former CJN was more than a senior legal figure; he was a fatherly pillar and a source of encouragement for Muslim law students across Nigeria.
His openness to guiding young legal minds reflected a deep-seated belief in nurturing future custodians of justice and ensuring the continuity of ethical practice in the profession.
The death of Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria's judicial history. His journey from Bauchi State to the pinnacle of the nation's judiciary serves as an inspiration, while his passing leaves a void in the legal community that will be deeply felt.
