Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (retd.), has passed away.
Sources confirmed on Tuesday morning that the former head of the Nigerian judiciary died at a hospital in Saudi Arabia, where he had been receiving medical care.
The news of his death was also formally confirmed by the Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS), National Headquarters, Abuja, in a condolence statement dated December 16, 2025, describing his passing as a profound loss to the nation.
In the 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.
“Indeed, to Allah we belong and to Him we shall return,” the statement read.
NAMLAS described Justice Muhammad as a towering judicial figure whose life was marked by integrity, humility and unwavering dedication to justice. According to the association, throughout his long and distinguished career on the Bench, he consistently upheld the highest standards of fairness, courage and fidelity to the rule of law.
“As Chief Justice of Nigeria, he discharged his duties with wisdom, restraint and a deep sense of responsibility, leaving behind a legacy of service that will continue to inspire generations of legal practitioners,” the statement noted.
Beyond his judicial responsibilities, the association highlighted his strong commitment to mentorship, particularly among young Muslim law students across the country. NAMLAS said the late jurist was not only a respected judge but also a father figure and source of encouragement to aspiring legal minds.
“His support, moral guidance and openness to the aspirations of Muslim law students reflected his deep belief in mentorship, continuity and the nurturing of future custodians of justice,” the association said.
NAMLAS extended condolences to the family of the late Chief Justice, the Nigerian judiciary, the government and people of Nigeria, as well as the Muslim Ummah. The association also offered prayers for Allah’s forgiveness and mercy upon his soul, praying that his good deeds be accepted and that he be granted Jannatul Firdaus.
Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad served the Nigerian judiciary for several decades, rising to the highest judicial office in the country. His career left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s legal history and the administration of justice.
