A former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais (rtd.), died in the early hours of Friday. He was 88 years old.
Born in Zaria, Kaduna State, Uwais was CJN from 1995 to 2006.
He became a justice of the apex court at 43 and was the second longest serving CJN in Nigeria’s history.
Uwais chaired a panel on electoral reform, inaugurated by then President Umaru Yar’Adua, after retiring from the Supreme Court. The panel submitted its report in December 2008.
In his tribute, Ondo State Attorney-General, Mr. Kayode Ajulo said: Uwais was a true beacon of integrity, guiding the judiciary with grace and wisdom. His tenure as Chief Justice from 1995 to 2006 fundamentally transformed the landscape of our legal system, laying a foundation that continues to resonate today.
‘Justice Uwais was instrumental in our journey of democratic development and nation-building, serving not only as a jurist but as a visionary reformist of our electoral process.
His leadership as Chairman of the Electoral Reform Committee, alongside esteemed members such as Bishop Mathew Kukah and Dr. Olisa Agbakoba exemplified his remarkable wisdom.
‘The recommendations he presented not only established new standards but also instilled in our system a profound understanding of law and the responsibilities it entails.
‘Among his most significant contributions was the call for the establishment of an independent electoral commission, a vital measure designed to enhance the integrity and transparency of Nigeria’s electoral process.
‘Furthermore, his committee championed the integration of technology in elections, advocating for electronic voting and the transmission of results — initiatives aimed at reducing fraud and fostering public confidence in our electoral system’.
A former Chairman of Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu said: “Under him, Nigerians voted the judiciary as the “Man of the Year” in 2006. He was my birthday mate and a personal mentor. I mourn the passing of a truly good man.
