Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (retd.), has passed away, marking the end of a long and distinguished career at the pinnacle of the nation’s judiciary.
The former head of the Nigerian judiciary died in Saudi Arabia, where he had been receiving medical care, according to multiple sources.
Justice Muhammad reportedly passed away in the early hours of Tuesday at a hospital in the Kingdom, sparking widespread reactions across Nigeria, particularly within legal, judicial and religious circles.
Confirming the development, a senior source said, “Ex-CJN Tanko Muhammad is dead. He passed away this morning at a Saudi Arabian hospital,” putting to rest speculations surrounding his health.
The Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS), National Headquarters, Abuja, also confirmed his death in an official condolence message dated December 16, 2025, describing his passing as a profound loss to the nation.
Indeed, to Allah we belong and to Him we shall return,” the association stated.
In a statement titled “NAMLAS Condolence Message on the Passing of Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, Former Chief Justice of Nigeria,” the association said the news of his death was deeply painful and far-reaching.
“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 eulogised as a jurist of integrity, humility and strong moral character, whose years on the Bench were defined by fairness and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law. His tenure as Chief Justice, the association noted, was marked by wisdom, restraint and devotion to justice.
According to NAMLAS, his judicial career reflected the highest standards expected of the Bench, adding that his legacy would continue to 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 his mentorship role, particularly among young Muslim law students nationwide, describing him as approachable, supportive and deeply invested in the growth of aspiring 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,” it said.
NAMLAS extended condolences to his family, the Nigerian judiciary and the nation, stressing that the loss transcends the legal profession.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, the Nigerian Judiciary, the Government and people of Nigeria, and the entire Muslim Ummah,” the association stated.
The group also offered prayers for the late jurist, asking Allah to forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him “the highest abode in Jannatul Firdaus.”
Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad served the Nigerian judiciary for decades and rose to the highest judicial office in the country, leaving behind one of the most consequential legacies in Nigeria’s legal history, defined by discipline, service and an enduring commitment to justice.
