Former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Mohammed Lawal Uwais, is dead. He died on Friday in Abuja at the age of 89.

The demise of the renowned jurist was confirmed by reliable sources at the Supreme Court, where he served with distinction until his retirement in 2006.

The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, Dr. Kayode Ajulo (SAN), also confirmed the death in a heartfelt tribute, describing the late Justice Uwais as a towering figure in Nigeria’s judicial history whose contributions to the development of the legal system remain indelible.

Burial arrangements, according to sources, are already underway, with preparations being made for his funeral prayer and interment in accordance with Islamic rites.

Uwais served as Chief Justice of Nigeria between 1995 and 2006. During his tenure, he was celebrated for his commitment to justice, bold reforms, and efforts to safeguard the independence of the judiciary. He was also the head of the Electoral Reform Committee set up in 2007, whose recommendations continue to influence electoral discussions in Nigeria.

His death comes shortly after the nation also lost a former Minister of Education, Professor Jubril Aminu, who died at the age of 85.

Details of the burial and tributes from the legal community are expected in the coming hours.