Ex-CJN Ibrahim Muhammad dies at 71

Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, a former chief justice of Nigeria (CJN), is dead.

He was 71 years of age and hailed from the Doguwa area of Bauchi state.

TheCable understands that Muhammad died on Tuesday morning in Saudi Arabia after a brief illness.

Bala Mohammed, governor of Bauchi state, confirmed Muhammad’s passing in a condolence message issued by Mukhtar Gidado, his special adviser on media and publicity.

“Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad exemplified the qualities of a patriotic Nigerian who devoted his life to the service of justice and the advancement of our great nation. His passing is a significant loss, not only to Bauchi State but to the Nigerian judiciary and the rule of law,” the statement reads.

Muhammad served as the substantive CJN from July 24, 2019 to June 27, 2022. He was Nigeria’s 17th chief justice.

He was appointed acting CJN on January 25, 2019 in controversial circumstances, after the suspension of Walter Onnoghen, his predecessor.

In January 2019, then President Muhammadu Buhari suspended Onnoghen over allegations of non-asset declaration.

Onnoghen was never returned to office following his resignation and conviction by the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) — nearly two years before he was scheduled to retire in December 2020.

In June 2022, Muhammad resigned as CJN on grounds of ill health.

Days before his resignation, 14 justices of the apex court had accused him of abandoning his responsibilities as the leader of the court.

The judges had also accused him of embarking on foreign trips with his family while denying them the right to go on international trainings.

In a condolence statement signed by Festus Akande, its director of information and public relations, the supreme court said Muhammad’s tenure as CJN “was marked by an unwavering commitment to the rule of law”.

“Justice Tanko’s tenure as Chief Justice of Nigeria from 2019 to 2022 was marked by an unwavering commitment to the rule of law, judicial independence, and the fair administration of justice,” the statement reads.

“His keen intellect and compassionate demeanour earned him the respect of judges, lawyers, and citizens alike, as his contributions have indelibly shaped Nigeria’s legal landscape.

“The court pays tribute to his remarkable contributions, which include: strengthening the appellate system and procedural efficiency, advocating for the professional development of Judges and Judicial staff, and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability within the judiciary.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, the judiciary, and the Nigerian public. We pray that his legacy of integrity, humility, and dedication continues to inspire all who serve the nation’s justice system.

“May his soul rest in peace.”