FORMER CHIEF JUSTICE OF NIGERIA, JUSTICE MUHAMMADU LAWAL UWAIS, PASSES AWAY AT 88

The family of Justice Muhammadu Lawal Uwais, former Chief Justice of the Federation, has announced his passing in a statement that read, “Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihir Rajiun. It is with heavy heart, full of gratitude to Allah Subahanahu Wata’ala, that we announce the passing away of our father, Justice Muhammadu Lawal Uwais, former Chief Justice of the Federation.”

According to the family, funeral arrangements will be conducted immediately after Juma’at Mosque today at the National Mosque Abuja. Justice Uwais served as the head of Nigeria’s judiciary from 1995 until his retirement in 2006, leaving a legacy of integrity and unwavering commitment to judicial independence.

During his tenure as Chief Justice of Nigeria, Uwais was a key advocate for judicial reforms and spearheaded important initiatives. One notable achievement was chairing the Presidential Electoral Reform Committee in 2007, established by then-President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, which produced the landmark “Uwais Report”. This report recommended significant changes to Nigeria’s electoral system, including the creation of an Independent Electoral Offences Commission and reforms to the appointment process of the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Justice Uwais was widely respected for his humility, depth of knowledge, and principled leadership. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Maryam Uwais, a lawyer and human rights advocate who served as Special Adviser and Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programmes under President Muhammadu Buhari. Tributes have poured in for the late jurist, with many describing him as a true beacon of integrity who guided the judiciary with wisdom and grace.