Former CJN Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad Dies in Saudi Arabia, Legal Community Mourns
Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (retd.), has died, bringing to a close a distinguished judicial career that spanned several decades.
Justice Muhammad passed away in Saudi Arabia, where he had been receiving medical care, PulseNets learnt. His death was said to have occurred in the early hours of Tuesday at a hospital in the kingdom.
The passing of the former head of Nigeria’s judiciary has triggered an outpouring of reactions nationwide, particularly among members of the legal profession, the judiciary, and the Muslim community.
A senior source, who spoke to PulseNets, confirmed the development and dispelled lingering concerns about his health status. “Yes, former Chief Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad has passed on. He died this morning at a hospital in Saudi Arabia,” the source said.
PulseNets also obtained confirmation from the Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS), National Headquarters, Abuja, which issued an official condolence message dated December 16, 2025.
The association described the death of the former Chief Justice as a profound national loss, noting that Nigeria had lost one of its most respected jurists.
“Truly, we belong to Allah and to Him we shall all return,” the statement read.
In a condolence message titled “NAMLAS Condolence Message on the Passing of Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, Former Chief Justice of Nigeria,” the association expressed deep sorrow over his demise, describing it as painful and far-reaching.
“The Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS), National Headquarters, Abuja, received with deep sadness the news of the death of Honourable Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, former Chief Justice of Nigeria. His passing represents an enormous loss to the Nigerian judiciary, the legal community, the Muslim Ummah, and the nation at large,” the statement said.
Justice Muhammad was eulogised as a jurist of integrity, humility, and sound moral judgement, whose years on the Bench were anchored on fairness, discipline, and unwavering respect for the rule of law. His tenure as Chief Justice, according to the association, was defined by wisdom, caution, and an enduring commitment to justice.
NAMLAS noted that his judicial career reflected the highest ideals of the Bench, adding that his legacy would continue to influence and inspire future generations of legal practitioners across the country.
“In his role as Chief Justice of Nigeria, he carried out his duties with remarkable wisdom and restraint, leaving behind a legacy of service that will continue to shape generations of lawyers and judges,” the association added.
The association further highlighted his mentorship role, particularly among young Muslim law students nationwide. It said the late Chief Justice was known for his accessibility and encouragement, often guiding aspiring legal professionals.
“To NAMLAS, the late Chief Justice was not only a jurist but a father figure—an enduring source of guidance and motivation to Muslim law students across Nigeria,” the statement noted.
Condolences were extended to his immediate family, the Nigerian judiciary, and the nation, as the association described the loss as one that transcends the legal profession.
“We extend our sincere condolences to his family, the Nigerian Judiciary, the Government and people of Nigeria, and the entire Muslim Ummah,” the statement said.
Prayers were also offered for the repose of his soul, with NAMLAS asking Allah to forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, and grant him “the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus.”
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Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad devoted decades of service to Nigeria’s judiciary and ultimately rose to the country’s highest judicial office.
His career remains one of the most consequential in Nigeria’s legal history, defined by service, discipline, and an enduring commitment to justice.
