A former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais, has died at the age of 89.
The eminent jurist passed away on Friday, June 6, 2025, in Abuja. A family source confirmed the development, noting that preparations were already underway for his funeral prayers and burial in line with Islamic rites.
Born on June 12, 1936, Justice Uwais was widely respected for his contributions to Nigeria’s legal and democratic systems. He served as Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 until his retirement in 2006.
Following his retirement from the Supreme Court, Justice Uwais was appointed by the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua to chair the Electoral Reform Committee, which played a pivotal role in recommending far-reaching reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral process.
“He was a man of integrity, a legal luminary, and a patriot whose legacy continues to shape our judiciary and democracy,” a senior legal practitioner who once worked with the late jurist said.
The committee, often referred to as the Uwais Electoral Reform Panel, produced a landmark report that advocated for the independence of the electoral commission and reforms aimed at curbing electoral malpractice. The report remains a reference point in Nigeria’s ongoing democratic development.
Speaking on the late jurist’s passing, a former colleague at the Supreme Court said, “Justice Uwais was one of the most principled and disciplined judges of his time. His death is a great loss to the Nigerian judiciary and the country at large.”
Over the years, several civil society organizations and legal experts have continued to push for full implementation of the Uwais report, praising its vision and commitment to electoral transparency.
His death has drawn condolences from across the legal and political landscape, with tributes expected from key national institutions and leaders.
Justice Mohammed Uwais is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.
