Ex-CJN Mohammed Uwais Dies At 88
Former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais, has passed away at the age of 88.
The jurist died on Friday, June 6, 2025, reports TVC.
In a statement confirming his death, the family said: “Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihir Rajiun. It is with heavy heart, full of gratitude to Allah Subahanahu Wata’ala, that we announce the passing away of our father, Justice Muhammadu Lawal Uwais, former Chief Justice of the Federation.”
They also said his funeral is scheduled to take place today after the Juma’at prayers at the National Mosque in Abuja, in accordance with Islamic rites.
Born on June 12, 1936, in Zaria, Kaduna State, Justice Uwais was widely respected for his unwavering commitment to judicial integrity, independence, and reform throughout his distinguished career. He served as the head of Nigeria’s judiciary from 1995 until his retirement in 2006.
Uwais began his legal journey after being called to the Bar at the Middle Temple, London, in 1963. He commenced his career as a State Counsel in the Northern Region of Nigeria and steadily rose through the judicial ranks.
His legal acumen and dedication earned him an appointment as a Justice of the Supreme Court in 1979. In 1995, he was elevated to the position of Chief Justice of Nigeria.
As CJN, Uwais was a key advocate for the independence of the judiciary and spearheaded important judicial reforms. Ater his retirement, he remained active in national affairs.
In 2007, he was appointed by President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua to chair the Presidential Electoral Reform Committee. The committee’s work culminated in the “Uwais Report,” which proposed landmark reforms to Nigeria’s electoral system.
Among the report’s key recommendations were the creation of Independent Electoral Offences Commission and significant changes to the process of appointing the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The proposal was aimed at strengthening transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s elections.
Justice Uwais was known for his humility, depth of knowledge, and principled leadership.
He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Maryam Uwais, a lawyer and human rights advocate who served as Special Adviser and Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programmes under former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Ex-CJN Mohammed Uwais Dies At 88 is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
