Former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Mohammed Uwais, has passed away at the age of 89.
His death was confirmed on Friday morning by Ondo State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo.
Justice Uwais served as Nigeria’s Chief Justice from 1995 until his retirement in 2006. He earned widespread respect for his dedication to judicial reform and upholding the integrity of the judiciary throughout his distinguished career.
Following his retirement, he was appointed by the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua to lead the Presidential Electoral Reform Committee. The committee included distinguished figures such as Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah and renowned human rights advocate, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, SAN.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be made public. However, tributes are expected to flow in from leaders across Nigeria’s legal, political, and civil society communities in the coming days.
What you should know
Justice Mohammed Uwais was a respected figure in Nigeria’s judiciary, serving as Chief Justice from 1995 to 2006.
He also led the Presidential Electoral Reform Committee under President Yar’Adua. His passing marks the end of a legacy deeply rooted in justice, reform, and public service.
