Governor Bala Mohammed Pays Condolence Visit to Family of Late CJN, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad in Giade
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has paid a condolence visit to Giade, the hometown of the late former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (GCON), following his passing after a brief illness.
During the visit, Governor Mohammed commiserated with the immediate family of the deceased, community leaders, and residents of Giade. He described the late jurist as an illustrious son of Bauchi State and a distinguished Nigerian whose life was devoted to justice, integrity, and service to the nation.
The governor highlighted Justice Tanko Muhammad’s remarkable rise through the judiciary — from the High Court to the Court of Appeal, the Supreme Court, and ultimately as Chief Justice of Nigeria (2019–2022). He noted that this journey was a testament to his discipline, commitment, and professional excellence, adding that his contributions to Nigeria’s judicial system would remain enduring and worthy of emulation.
Governor Mohammed prayed for the repose of the soul of the late Chief Justice, asking Almighty Allah to grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus. He urged the bereaved family to take solace in the remarkable legacy he left behind.
Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad’s death has continued to attract tributes from government officials, members of the judiciary, legal practitioners, and Nigerians from all walks of life.
Biography of Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad
Early Life & Education: Born on 31 December 1953 in Giade, Bauchi State, Justice Tanko Muhammad attended Giade Primary School and Government Secondary School, Azare. He proceeded to Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he earned his LL.B. in 1980, followed by a Master’s (LL.M.) in 1985 and a Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Law in 1998.
Judicial Career:
Magistrate Grade II, Bauchi State Judiciary (1982–1984)
Justice, Court of Appeal (1993–2006)
Justice, Supreme Court of Nigeria (2006–2019)
Chief Justice of Nigeria (2019–2022), succeeding Justice Walter Onnoghen
His judicial career spanned over four decades, marked by discipline, fairness, and a commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s legal system. He resigned in June 2022 due to health reasons, leaving behind a reputation as a jurist of integrity.
As Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Tanko Muhammad presided over several pivotal moments in Nigeria’s judiciary:
Oversaw critical rulings on gubernatorial and presidential election petitions, reinforcing the judiciary’s role in safeguarding democracy.
Judicial Reforms: Advocated for discipline within the judiciary, emphasizing ethical conduct and accountability among judges.
Participated in landmark decisions interpreting constitutional provisions on separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary.
As a scholar of Islamic law, he contributed significantly to the development of Sharia jurisprudence within Nigeria’s legal framework.
His tenure reflected both the challenges and resilience of Nigeria’s judiciary, leaving behind precedents that continue to shape legal practice and governance.
“Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad was a beacon of integrity and service whose life strengthened Nigeria’s judiciary. His legacy of discipline and fairness will continue to inspire generations. May Allah grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus.”
Report compiled by Abdulwahab Muhammad, Senior Special Assistant (SSA) Communication to Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed of Bauchi State.
End
