The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun and the management of the Supreme Court have joined the nation’s legal community in the mourning of the former CJN, Justice Muhammadu Lawal Uwais who died on Friday at 89 years.
In separate statements, Justice Kekere-Ekun and the Supreme Court spoke glowingly about Justice Uwais many contributions to the development of the nation’s judicial system.
Justice Kekere-Ekun said: “I have received, with sadness but also with gratitude to Almighty God for a life of impact, the news of the passing of Hon. Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais, GCON, former Chief Justice of Nigeria (1995–2006), which occurred earlier today.
“Hon. Justice Uwais was a towering figure in Nigeria’s legal and judicial history—an erudite jurist, visionary reformer, and statesman whose contributions to the development of constitutional law, judicial independence, and democratic governance will forever remain etched in the annals of our national life.
“Appointed to the Supreme Court in 1979 and later rising to serve as the Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 to 2006, Hon. Justice Uwais distinguished himself by his unwavering commitment to justice, courage in the defence of the rule of law, and the clarity and scholarship of his judgments.
“His post-retirement service, including chairing the Electoral Reform Committee, further affirmed his deep love for country and passion for institutional integrity.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of the late jurist, the Nigerian judiciary, and the nation at large. I pray for the peaceful repose of his noble soul.
“The life and legacy of Hon. Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais will continue to inspire generations of judges, lawyers, and public servants.
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“He was, indeed, a beacon of principle and a guardian of judicial honour. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” the CJN said.
The second statement was issued on behalf of the Supreme Court by the court’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Dr. Festus Akande.
It reads: “The Supreme Court of Nigeria mourns the loss of a distinguished legal luminary and former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Muhammadu Lawal Uwais, GCON, who passed away in the early hours of Friday, June 6, 2025.
“He served as the 9th Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 until his retirement in 2006, leaving behind a formidable legacy of judicial excellence and integrity.
“Born on June 12, 1936, in Zaria, Kaduna State, Justice Uwais embarked on a remarkable journey through the legal profession.
“He was called to the Bar at the Middle Temple, London in 1963 and quickly made a name for himself through his commitment to justice and fairness. Over the decades, he held various influential positions within and outside the judiciary.
“During his tenure as Chief Justice, he championed judicial reforms aimed at improving the administration of justice in Nigeria.
“He was instrumental in the establishment of the National Judicial Council, which plays a critical role in maintaining the independence and integrity of the judiciary.
“Justice Uwais was also dedicated to advancing legal education and was a mentor to many young lawyers and judges.
“The Supreme Court of Nigeria expresses its deepest condolences to the family of Justice Muhammadu Uwais, GCON, during this moment of grief.
“We honour his tireless dedication to the rule of law and the improvement of the Nigerian judiciary; values for which he will always be remembered.
“Hon. Justice Uwais’s professional achievements and unwavering commitment to justice have had a lasting impact on Nigeria’s legal landscape.
“He will be sorely missed by colleagues, friends, and the many lives he touched throughout his career.”