The National Judicial Council (NJC) has officially announced the death of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (retd.), describing his passing as a profound and irreplaceable loss to the nation and the Nigerian judiciary.
The confirmation was contained in a condolence statement issued by the NJC on behalf of the Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman of the Council, Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun. In the statement, the Council expressed deep sorrow over the demise of the former head of the judiciary, noting that his death has left a significant void within the legal and judicial community.
The NJC extended its heartfelt condolences to the family of the late jurist, as well as to the government and people of Bauchi State, his home state. The Council also sympathised with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, members of the Nigerian judiciary, and the wider legal profession, acknowledging the far-reaching impact of Muhammad’s death across the country. It prayed for Almighty God to grant his soul eternal rest and to give his loved ones the strength to bear the painful loss.
In the statement signed by the Secretary of the NJC, the Council noted that although the judiciary is deeply saddened by the reality of his passing, it takes comfort in the enduring legacy he left behind. Justice Muhammad was remembered for his diligence, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the administration of justice throughout his long and distinguished career.
Part of the tribute described the late Chief Justice as a devout Muslim and an exemplary jurist who embodied the highest ideals of the Bench. The Council noted that he would have turned 72 on December 31, 2025, and praised his courage, discipline, and dedication to upholding the rule of law.
Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad began his legal career in 1982, shortly after being called to the Nigerian Bar in 1981 and completing his training at the Nigerian Law School. His rise through the judicial ranks was marked by steady progression and notable service. In 1989, he was appointed Chief Magistrate of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, a role he held until 1991. He later served as a Judge of the Bauchi State Sharia Court of Appeal before being elevated to the Court of Appeal in 1993.
In 2006, Justice Muhammad was appointed to the Supreme Court of Nigeria, where he served with distinction for 16 years. He became the Chief Justice of Nigeria in 2019, a position he held until June 2022, when he resigned due to health challenges.
Earlier reports indicated that Justice Muhammad passed away at the age of 71 while undergoing medical treatment abroad. His death marks the end of a remarkable judicial career that spanned four decades and left an enduring imprint on Nigeria’s legal system.
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