Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, a former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) and one of the country’s longest-serving jurists, has died at the age of 71. The retired legal luminary passed away on Tuesday, 16 December 2025, in a hospital in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where he had been receiving medical treatment.
Born on 31 December 1953 in Doguwa, Giade Local Government Area of Bauchi State, Justice Tanko Muhammad’s judicial career spanned more than four decades. He served at multiple tiers of Nigeria’s justice system — from the magistracy and Sharia Court of Appeal to the Court of Appeal and ultimately the Supreme Court. He was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2006 and later elevated to the nation’s highest judicial office in 2019.
Justice Muhammad led Nigeria’s judiciary as Chief Justice of Nigeria from 2019 until his resignation in June 2022, citing health reasons. During his tenure, he also served as the Chairman of the National Judicial Council (NJC). His resignation brought an end to a career marked by notable contributions to judicial administration and jurisprudence.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described Justice Muhammad’s death as a “deep loss to the nation,” praising him as “an eminent legal mind, a disciplined administrator, and a dedicated public servant” whose life was devoted to upholding justice and strengthening Nigeria’s judiciary. The President extended heartfelt condolences to the deceased’s family, the Supreme Court, and the legal community.
The Supreme Court of Nigeria and the current Chief Justice and NJC Chairman, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, also expressed profound sorrow, highlighting the former CJN’s commitment to the rule of law, judicial independence, and fair administration of justice.
State and national figures have paid tribute to Justice Muhammad’s life and legacy. Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed lauded him as a jurist of “integrity, discipline, and steadfast commitment to the rule of law.” The governor said his passing was a significant loss for Bauchi State, the Nigerian judiciary, and the nation.
Former Minister Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami described the late jurist as an “icon of humility and unwavering commitment to justice,” noting that his legacy will remain indelible in the country’s legal history. Pantami extended condolences to the family, the Supreme Court, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and colleagues in the profession.
Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad dedicated his life to public service and the Nigerian justice system. His legal journey, beginning with his call to the bar in 1981, saw him rise through the ranks with a reputation for discipline and professionalism. He was honored with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) for his contributions to national service.
His sudden passing comes just weeks before what would have been his 72nd birthday on 31 December 2025, and has sparked an outpouring of grief from legal communities, students, and civic groups nationwide.
Justice Tanko Muhammad leaves behind a legacy of judicial scholarship, mentorship, and dedication to the rule of law. His impact on Nigeria’s legal framework and the judiciary will be remembered by colleagues, students, and citizens for generations.
