BREAKING: Ex-CJN Tanko Muhammad is dead

Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (retd.), has passed away in Saudi Arabia, bringing to an end a distinguished career in public service and the judiciary.

Very Nigerian gathered that Justice Muhammad reportedly died in the early hours of Tuesday at a hospital in Saudi Arabia, where he had been receiving medical attention. News of his passing has sparked widespread reactions across Nigeria, particularly within legal, judicial, and religious communities.

A senior source confirmed, “Ex-CJN Tanko Muhammad is dead. He passed away this morning at a Saudi Arabian Hospital,” ending speculations about his health.

The Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS), National Headquarters, Abuja, expressed profound sorrow over his passing, describing it as a monumental loss to the Nigerian judiciary, the legal profession, the Muslim Ummah, and the nation. “Indeed, to Allah we belong and to Him we shall return,” the association said in its condolence message dated December 16, 2025.

Justice Muhammad was widely recognised for his integrity, humility, and strong moral character.

His tenure on the Bench, culminating in his role as Chief Justice of Nigeria, was marked by fairness, wisdom, restraint, and unwavering dedication to the rule of law.

NAMLAS highlighted his mentorship and support for young Muslim law students across the country, describing him as approachable and fatherly. “To NAMLAS, the late Chief Justice was more than a jurist; he was a pillar and a source of encouragement to Muslim law students across the nation,” the association said.

Prayers were offered for the late jurist, with hopes that Allah forgives his shortcomings, accepts his good deeds, and grants him the highest abode in Jannatul Firdaus.

Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad leaves behind a legacy of service, discipline, and commitment to justice that will continue to guide generations of legal practitioners in Nigeria.

Condolences have been extended to his family, the Nigerian judiciary, the Government and people of Nigeria, and the entire Muslim Ummah.

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