By Segun Adewale, Bauchi
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdukadir Mohammed, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (retd.), who died on Tuesday, 16 December, 2025 at a hospital in Saudi Arabia after a prolonged illness at the age of 71.
In a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Comrade Mukhtar Gidado, the Governor described the death of the former CJN as a profound loss to Bauchi State, the Nigerian judiciary, and the nation at large.
According to the message, Governor Bala Mohammed extends heartfelt condolences to the entire family of the late jurist, friends, colleagues in the legal profession, and the citizens of Bauchi State and Nigeria at large.
“Justice Tanko Muhammad exemplified the qualities of a patriotic Nigerian whose life was committed to the service of justice and the advancement of our great nation. His passing is a significant loss not only to Bauchi State but to the Nigerian judiciary and the rule of law,” the Governor remarked.
Governor Bala Mohammed described late justice Ibrahim Tanko as a venerable jurist whose life and career exemplified dedication to duty, integrity in service and steadfast commitment to the rule of law , who rose through the legal profession with diligence and distinction, serving with honour as Judge of the High Court, the Court of Appeal and ultimately as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria and later served as the Chief Justice of Nigeria from 2019 to 2022, bringing to the highest office in the nation’s judiciary his wealth of experience, and commitment to justice.
“During his illustrious career, Justice Tanko Muhammad was widely respected for his legal acumen, his discipline, and his contributions to the development of Nigeria’s judicial system. His elevation to the national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) was a testimony to his impactful service to the nation”
He further prayed that “Almighty Allah grant the departed soul Al- Jannatul Firdaus, and comfort his family, loved ones and all who mourn him at this difficult time. May his legacy of service, wisdom and integrity endure, Ameen”.
