The National Judicial Council (NJC) has announced the death of former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (rtd.).
The confirmation was contained in an official condolence message issued by the NJC on Tuesday, conveying the sympathies of the Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman of the NJC, Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, to the family of the late jurist.
In the statement, the Council described the passing of Justice Muhammad as a great and irreplaceable loss to the Nigerian judiciary and the country at large.
The NJC extended its condolences to the family of the former CJN, the government and people of Bauchi State, as well as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, members of the legal profession, and the entire judicial community.
The Council also offered prayers for the repose of his soul and strength for his loved ones to bear the loss.
According to the NJC, although the judiciary is deeply saddened by his death, it takes comfort in the enduring legacy of discipline, integrity, and dedication to service which Justice Muhammad left behind.
A portion of the statement noted that the late jurist, who would have turned 72 years old on December 31, 2025, was a devout Muslim and a respected member of the Bench, widely known for upholding the highest ethical standards of judicial service.
Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad was called to the Bar in 1981 and began his legal career in 1982.
He later served as Chief Magistrate of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory between 1989 and 1991 before his appointment as a Judge of the Bauchi State Sharia Court of Appeal.
In 1993, he was elevated to the Court of Appeal and subsequently appointed as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria in 2006, where he served until 2022.
Justice Muhammad became Chief Justice of Nigeria in 2019 and remained in office until June 2022, when he resigned due to health-related concerns.
Reports indicate that the former CJN passed away at the age of 71 while undergoing medical treatment abroad.

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