President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to Justice Mohammed Uwais, former Chief Justice of Nigeria, who passed away on Friday, June 6, 2025, at the age of 89.
Tinubu described Uwais as a phenomenal jurist and statesman who served Nigeria with honor, courage, and exceptional integrity ¹.
In his tribute, Tinubu highlighted Uwais’ remarkable career, noting that he super intended the Judiciary during a challenging time in Nigeria’s history with tact, patience, and a sense of duty.
Tinubu extending his heartfelt condolences to the Uwais family, the government, and the people of Kaduna State, as well as the members of the Nigerian Judiciary ¹.
Uwais played a stabilising role that helped usher in the current democratic dispensation, and he had the distinct honor of swearing in the elected president on May 29, 1999.
After retirement, Uwais was called upon by the Federal Government to head a panel to investigate the conduct of elections.
Given his pedigree and personal integrity, he was the right person for the assignment.
Uwais led the panel to produce a critical report that contained a detailed prognosis of Nigeria’s electoral system ¹.
Several leaders have paid tribute to Uwais, including, former President Muhammadu Buhari described Uwais as a jurist who emphasised a meticulous approach to law and made notable contributions to bringing justice closer to the people.
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, said Uwais distinguished himself through a remarkable legal career of excellence and enhanced Nigeria’s legal systems and knowledge base.
Uwais’ legacy would continue to inspire generations of legal minds and public servants.
His commitment to justice and good governance has left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s judicial system.
