The Nigerian Bar Association has expressed sadness over the death of a former Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad.
Justice Muhammad died in Saudi Arabia and his passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s judicial history, which was defined by years of service at the highest levels of the Bench.
A statement by NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, said Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad served the Nigerian judiciary over several decades, rising through the ranks to become Chief Justice of Nigeria.
He said: “His judicial career, spanning the Sharia Court of Appeal, the Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court of Nigeria, reflected steady professional progression and adherence to constitutional responsibility.
“In the discharge of his duties, he contributed to the interpretation and application of the law within Nigeria’s constitutional framework.
“As Chief Justice of Nigeria, he presided over the Supreme Court during a challenging period in the nation’s democratic development.
“His tenure was marked by the exercise of administrative and judicial responsibilities associated with the office, and by his role in guiding the work of the apex court.”
The NBA commiserated with the family of the late Chief Justice, the Judiciary, the Supreme Court of Nigeria, the National Judicial Council, and the wider legal community on this loss.
The statement added: “We also extend our condolences to the Government and people of Bauchi State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“We pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) grants him forgiveness and eternal rest, and that his family is comforted during this difficult time.
“Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad will be remembered as a jurist who served the Nigerian judiciary at its highest level and played his part in the nation’s legal history.”
