A former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Mohammed Uwais, has died at the age of 86, just days before his birthday, leaving behind a legacy of judicial reform and integrity.
The Octogenarian was pronounced dead by medical experts on the morning of the Muslim celebration of Eid al-Adha, a day considered spiritually significant in Islam.
Uwais demise was confirmed by his family through a statement issued to the public on Friday.
“Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihir Rajiun. It is with heavy heart, full of gratitude to Allah Subahanahu Wata’ala, the we announce the passing away of our father, Justice Muhammadu Lawal Uwais, former Chief Justice of the Federation.
“Funeral arrangements are to be done immediately after Juma’at Mosque today at the National Mosque.
Born on June 12, 1936, Justice Uwais served as the Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 until his retirement in 2006.
Uwais chaired a commission that published a much-publicised report on electoral reform.
After retiring from the Supreme Court, he was appointed by the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua to lead the Electoral Reform Committee, where he played a key role in efforts to improve Nigeria’s electoral system.
