FORMER President Muhammadu Buhari has reacted to the death of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mohammed Uwais, who passed away at the age of 89.
In a statement issued on Friday by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, the former president extended his condolences to the family of the late jurist and to Nigerians at large, describing Uwais as a man of “distinguished career as a lawyer and a judge.”
Buhari said he was pained by the loss, recalling Uwais’ service as the head of the nation’s judiciary and his unwavering commitment to justice and democracy.
“He made notable contributions in bringing justice closer to the people.
“He was admired for his compassion and justice. He made important contributions towards making Nigeria‘s democratic fabric stronger,” Buhari said.
Reflecting on the late jurist’s approach to the law, the former president said, “He will always be remembered by countless people for his emphasis on a meticulous approach to law as a judge and a member of the Council of States.”
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family members, relatives, and friends who are grieving his loss, as we all are,” he added.
This newspaper had reported that the former CJN died in the early hours of Friday, according to the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Ondo State, Dr Kayode Ajulo.
Uwais served as Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 until his retirement in 2006.
Following his retirement, he chaired the Presidential Electoral Reform Committee inaugurated by late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
Northern Governors Mourn
Also, the Northern Governors’ Forum has expressed sadness over the death of Justice Uwais.
The Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya, disclosed this in a statement titled ‘Northern Governors Mourn Former Chief Justice Mohammed Uwais’ on Friday.
In the condolence message issued on behalf of his colleagues in the region, Governor Yahaya described the late jurist as a man of integrity, profound legal intellect, and an outstanding commitment to judicial reform and the rule of law.
“The death of Justice Mohammed Uwais marks the end of an illustrious era in Nigeria’s legal history. He was not only a legal icon but also a symbol of judicial excellence and ethical leadership,” he said in the statement signed by the Director-General (Press Affairs), Ismaila Uba Misilli.
The NSGF Chairman stated that Justice Uwais’ legacy would continue to inspire generations of legal minds and public servants.
“Nigeria has indeed lost a towering figure in its quest for justice and democracy,” he added.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the Uwais family, the government and people of Kaduna State, the judiciary, and the entire nation over the “monumental loss”.
He prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the revered jurist Aljannat Firdaus and comfort those he left behind.