Former CJN Ibrahim Muhammad dies at 71 in Saudi Arabia after illness, with tributes from Bauchi governor and the judiciary
Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (retd.), has died at the age of 71, the Bauchi State Government confirmed on Tuesday.
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Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, announced the death in a condolence message issued in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado.
The statement said Justice Muhammad died on Tuesday at a hospital in Saudi Arabia after a prolonged illness.
Governor Mohammed described the passing as a profound loss to Bauchi State, the Nigerian judiciary and the country at large.
He said Justice Muhammad was a distinguished son of Bauchi State whose career reflected dedication, integrity and unwavering commitment to the rule of law.
The governor recalled that the late jurist rose steadily through the judiciary, serving as a High Court judge, Justice of the Court of Appeal, Justice of the Supreme Court and Chief Justice of Nigeria between 2019 and 2022.
According to the governor, Justice Muhammad exemplified patriotism and discipline, earning widespread respect for his legal acumen and contributions to Nigeria’s justice system.
Mohammed noted that the national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger was conferred on the late Chief Justice in recognition of his outstanding service.
The statement added that the death of the former CJN Ibrahim Muhammad dies has left a painful void within the legal profession and among those who value judicial integrity.
Governor Mohammed extended condolences to the family of the deceased, his colleagues in the legal community and Nigerians nationwide.
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He prayed that Almighty Allah grant the late jurist Al Jannatul Firdaus and comfort all who mourn him, adding that his legacy of service and wisdom would endure.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
