Malik Yahya/
Nigeria has lost one of its most revered legal minds and statesmen, Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais, a former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), who passed away in Abuja on Friday at the age of 89.
Justice Uwais, who served as CJN from 1995 to 2006, died on a day that coincided with the Islamic festival of Eid-al-Adha, adding a solemn note to the national celebration. His death has drawn tributes from across the country, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu leading the nation in mourning.
In a statement released by the State House, President Tinubu described the late jurist as “a phenomenal jurist and statesman who served Nigeria with honour, courage and exceptional integrity.”
“Many remarkable highpoints hallmarked Justice Uwais’ illustrious career on the bench,” the President noted. “He superintended the judiciary at a challenging time in our history with tact, patience, and a sense of duty.”
Justice Uwais played a pivotal role during Nigeria’s return to democracy, administering the oath of office to President Olusegun Obasanjo on May 29, 1999. In retirement, he was again called upon to serve the nation when he chaired the Electoral Reform Panel, producing a landmark report widely regarded as a blueprint for electoral integrity in Nigeria.
President Tinubu praised the former CJN for his unwavering dignity and the respect he commanded beyond judicial circles. “In active service and retirement, the late Justice Uwais maintained a dignified persona,” he said, praying for his soul to find eternal rest in Jannatul Firdaus.
Born in Zaria, Kaduna State, Justice Uwais began his legal career in the 1960s, rising through the ranks with distinction. His tenure as CJN is remembered for its deep commitment to judicial independence and institutional reform.
Condolences have continued to pour in from the legal community, political leaders, and citizens, all eulogising a man many describe as a moral compass of the nation’s judiciary.
The Federal Government is expected to announce burial arrangements in line with Islamic rites.
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