Former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (retd), has passed away.
According to reports, Justice Muhammad died in the early hours of Tuesday at a hospital in Saudi Arabia, where he had been receiving medical treatment for an undisclosed ailment.
The Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS), National Headquarters, Abuja, confirmed the development in a condolence message dated December 16, 2025, describing his death as a profound loss to the Nigerian judiciary and the nation at large.
In a statement titled “NAMLAS Condolence Message on the Passing of Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, Former Chief Justice of Nigeria,” the association expressed deep sorrow over his demise.
“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,” the statement read.
Justice Muhammad was described as a jurist of integrity, humility, and strong moral character, whose years on the Bench were guided by fairness, discipline, and unwavering respect for the rule of law. According to the association, his tenure as Chief Justice was marked by wisdom, restraint, and a deep commitment to justice.
NAMLAS noted that his judicial career reflected the highest standards expected of the Bench, adding that his legacy would continue to shape and inspire future generations of legal practitioners in Nigeria.
“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 statement added.
The association also highlighted Justice Muhammad’s role as a mentor, particularly to young Muslim law students across the country, describing him as approachable, supportive, and deeply invested in nurturing the next generation of legal professionals.
“To NAMLAS, the late Chief Justice was more than a jurist; he was a fatherly pillar and a source of encouragement to Muslim law students across the country,” the statement concluded.
