The former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Muhammad (retd.), has died at the age of 71, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State confirmed on Tuesday.
According to a condolence message issued by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, Justice Muhammad passed away at a hospital in Saudi Arabia after a prolonged illness.
Governor Mohammed described the former jurist’s death as a profound loss to Bauchi State, the Nigerian judiciary, and the nation.
He hailed Justice Muhammad as a distinguished son of Bauchi State whose life and career were marked by dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law.
“The late jurist was a venerable and accomplished legal icon who rose through the ranks of the judiciary with diligence and distinction, serving as a Judge of the High Court, Justice of the Court of Appeal, Justice of the Supreme Court, and ultimately as Chief Justice of Nigeria from 2019 to 2022,” the statement read.
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The governor noted that Justice Muhammad was widely respected for his legal acumen, discipline, and contributions to the growth and development of Nigeria’s judicial system. He added that the conferment of the national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on the late jurist was a testament to his outstanding service to the nation.
Governor Mohammed extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, his friends, colleagues in the legal profession, and the people of Bauchi State and Nigeria. He prayed that Almighty Allah grant the departed soul Al-Jannatul Firdaus and give comfort and strength to all mourning his loss.
“May his legacy of service, wisdom, and integrity endure,” the governor added.