Nigeria’s former Chief Justice, Mohammed Lawal Uwais, has died at the age of 89. His family confirmed that he passed away on Friday, June 6, 2025, in Abuja.
Born on June 12, 1936, Justice Uwais served as the Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 until his retirement in 2006. During his tenure, he was widely acknowledged for his unwavering commitment to the rule of law and for upholding the independence of the judiciary.
Even after retirement, Justice Uwais continued to play a prominent role in national development. In 2007, he was appointed by the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua to lead the Electoral Reform Committee—a panel that made significant recommendations aimed at reshaping Nigeria’s electoral process and restoring public confidence in democratic institutions.
Justice Uwais was regarded as a man of intellect, humility, and integrity. His contributions to Nigeria’s legal and democratic evolution remain indelible.
The legal community and the nation at large are mourning the loss of one of its most revered jurists. Burial arrangements will be announced by the family in line with Islamic tradition.
