Buhari reformed Nigeria’s justice system, says Fagbemi

Lateef Fagbemi, attorney-general of the federation (AGF) and minister of justice, has described the former President Muhammadu Buhari, as a transformative leader who reshaped the country’s justice system and stood firm in defence of national interest.

Buhari died on Sunday, July 13, in a clinic in London, after a prolonged illness. He served as Nigeria’s military head of state from 1983 to 1985 and as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023.

In a statement issued to mourn the passing of the former president, Fagbemi said Buhari made major contributions to strengthening the administration of justice and advancing law reform during his time in office.

“As president, the late Muhammadu Buhari made significant strides in strengthening the administration of justice and advancing law reform,” the statement reads.

“His tenure witnessed the enactment of landmark statutes, bold policy initiatives, and far-reaching institutional reforms.

“These included the modernisation of correctional services, policing, anti-money laundering frameworks, asset recovery systems, federalism through the devolution of powers, electoral reform, and the deepening of good governance.”

According to the AGF, the reforms were not just legislative milestones but strategic shifts that improved accountability and reinforced public trust in Nigeria’s legal institutions.

Fagbemi also pointed to Buhari’s decisive role in launching Nigeria’s legal challenge against the controversial $11 billion arbitration award in favour of Process & Industrial Developments (P&ID), a case that threatened the country’s financial stability.

Initiated under Buhari and concluded under President Bola Tinubu, the case ended in Nigeria’s favour.

“Under the leadership of former President Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria initiated the successful challenge to the $11 billion P&ID arbitral award,” Fagbemi said.

“That bold and strategic effort ultimately enabled our nation to avert a crippling financial burden.

“Even in retirement, his unwavering sense of duty to the nation never diminished. I vividly recall visiting him in both London and Daura when his support was once again sought to help Nigeria confront another predatory claim—this time concerning the Mambila Hydroelectric Power Project.

“Despite the demands of age and the comfort of private life, former President Buhari selflessly agreed to serve as a witness.

“In January 2025, he travelled to Paris and stood before the tribunal, bearing testimony for the country he loved with rare and steadfast conviction.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to his excellency, President Tinubu, to the former first lady, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, and to the family, friends, and close associates of our dearly departed leader. Nigeria has lost a titan of principle and purpose. May his soul find eternal rest.”