President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to the late former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais, describing him as a “phenomenal jurist and statesman” who played a pivotal role in stabilising Nigeria’s democracy.
Justice Uwais died on Friday at the age of 89. His passing, which coincided with the Eid-al-Adha celebrations, marked the end of a distinguished era in Nigeria’s judicial history.
In a statement personally signed by President Tinubu, he hailed the late jurist for his courage, honour, and unwavering integrity throughout his career.
He noted that Justice Uwais served Nigeria with uncommon dedication, both on the Bench and in retirement.
“Many remarkable highpoints hallmarked Justice Uwais’ illustrious career,” the President said. “He superintended the Judiciary at a challenging time in our history with tact, patience, and a sense of duty. This stabilising role helped usher in the current democratic dispensation.”
President Tinubu recalled that Justice Uwais had the historic distinction of swearing in Nigeria’s democratically elected president on May 29, 1999, marking the nation’s return to civil rule after years of military rule.
Even in retirement, Justice Uwais was called upon by the Federal Government to lead a high-profile panel on electoral reform.
According to the President, his pedigree and personal integrity made him the ideal choice for the task, which culminated in a critical report that offered a comprehensive diagnosis of Nigeria’s electoral system.
“In active service and retirement, the late Justice Uwais maintained a dignified persona, earning him respect beyond his immediate constituency,” the President said.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the late jurist and extended heartfelt condolences to the Uwais family, the government and people of Kaduna State, and the entire Nigerian Judiciary.
“May God Almighty accept the soul of Justice Uwais and admit him to Jannatul Firdaus,” the President added.
Justice Uwais served as Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 to 2006 and was widely respected for his legal acumen, moral uprightness, and commitment to the rule of law. His legacy in shaping Nigeria’s legal and democratic institutions remains indelible.
