• 07 Jun, 2025
• FAITH MIMDOO KEGH
• No comment

Former Chief Justice Mohammed Uwais Dies at 89, Tributes Pour In.

Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Mohammed Lawal Uwais, has

passed away at the age of 89 in Abuja. His death was confirmed by the Supreme Court, marking the end of an era for one of Nigeria’s most respected jurists.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former President Muhammadu Buhari, Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, and many in the legal community paid heartfelt tributes to the late Uwais, acknowledging his lasting impact on the judiciary and democratic governance.

President Tinubu described Uwais as a “phenomenal jurist and statesman,” praising his integrity, leadership, and pivotal role in Nigeria’s return to democracy. He highlighted Uwais’ critical contribution in swearing in the civilian government in 1999 and leading post-retirement reforms, including chairing the Electoral Reform Committee in 2007.

Former President Buhari remembered Uwais for his compassion and pursuit of justice, calling him a meticulous legal mind who helped strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

Chief Justice Kekere-Ekun hailed Uwais as a visionary reformer and guardian of judicial independence. In her tribute, she acknowledged his influence on constitutional law and democratic governance, describing him as a beacon of principle.

The Supreme Court also issued a statement recounting Uwais’ distinguished career, from his call to the Bar in London in 1963 to his appointment as Supreme Court Justice in 1979, and finally as CJN from 1995 to 2006. His leadership in establishing the National Judicial Council was highlighted as a significant reform that helped preserve judicial integrity.

Former Attorney General Bayo Ojo praised Uwais’ legacy of reform, particularly his work on the Uwais Electoral Reform Report, which continues to inform electoral policy and democratic discourse in Nigeria.

Legal practitioners, including Kayode Ajulo and Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, expressed admiration for Uwais’ contributions to judicial independence and democratic development. Ajulo described his first appearance before Uwais at the Supreme Court as a defining moment in his legal career, while Adegboruwa emphasized the need to implement the Uwais Report as a way to honor his memory.

Justice Uwais was known for his advocacy for independent electoral bodies, technological reforms in elections, and greater transparency and fairness in Nigeria’s democratic process.

Born on June 12, 1936, in Zaria, Kaduna State, Uwais built a distinguished career rooted in integrity and public service. Funeral arrangements are reportedly underway.

FAITH MIMDOO KEGH

Manager – Oversees the daily operations, editorial planning, and strategic direction of the platform. A graduate with a solid academic foundation in media and communication, Faith brings a wealth of experience to the TokinPoint.

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