BREAKING: Ex-CJN Tanko Muhammad dies in Saudi Arabia

Former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (retd), has died.

According to reports, Justice Muhammad died early Tuesday at a hospital in Saudi Arabia, where he was receiving treatment for an undisclosed ailment.

The Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS), National Headquarters, Abuja, sent its condolences in a message dated December 16, 2025.

The association described the incident as a major loss to the Nigerian judiciary and the nation as a whole.

In its message titled “NAMLAS Condolence Message on the Passing of Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, Former Chief Justice of Nigeria,” the association said it regretted the former CJN’s death.

“The Nigeria Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS), National Headquarters, Abuja, receives with profound sorrow the news of the passing of Honourable Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, former Chief Justice of Nigeria. His demise is a monumental loss to the Nigerian judiciary, the legal profession, the Muslim Ummah, and the nation at large,” the statement read.

Justice Muhammad was described as a man of integrity, humility, and strong moral character, whose years on the Bench were guided by fairness and respect for the rule of law. His leadership as Chief Justice was marked by restraint, wisdom, and dedication to justice.

According to NAMLAS, his judicial career reflected the highest standards expected of the Bench. It also noted that his legacy would continue to shape and guide future generations of legal practitioners in Nigeria.

“As Chief Justice of Nigeria, he discharged his responsibilities with wisdom and restraint, leaving behind a legacy of service that will continue to guide generations of legal practitioners,” the statement added.

The association highlighted his role as a mentor, particularly to young Muslim law students across the country. It said Justice Muhammad was approachable and supportive, offering guidance and encouragement to aspiring legal professionals.

“To NAMLAS, the late Chief Justice was more than a jurist; he was a fatherly pillar and a source of encouragement to Muslim law students across the country,” the association noted.