Ex-CJN Tanko Muhammad Dies at 71 in Saudi Arabia

Former Chief Justice of Nigeria Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad has passed away at the age of 71. He died in the early hours of Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at a hospital in Saudi Arabia where he had been receiving medical treatment.

The death of the distinguished jurist was confirmed by multiple sources including the Supreme Court of Nigeria and the Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students. Born in Giade Local Government Area of Bauchi State in 1953, he would have turned 72 on December 31, just 15 days after his death.

Supreme Court of Nigeria Confirms Death of Former CJN

The Supreme Court formally announced Justice Tanko's passing, noting that his tenure as Chief Justice from 2019 to 2022 was characterized by commitment to the rule of law, judicial independence, and fair administration of justice.

The judiciary paid tribute to his contributions to Nigeria's legal landscape. His death marks a significant loss to the Nigerian legal profession and the nation at large.

Tanko Muhammad Career and Educational Background

Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad had an illustrious career spanning over four decades in Nigeria's judicial system.

Educational Journey

He attended Government Secondary School, Azare, where he obtained his West Africa School Certificate in 1973 before proceeding to Ahmadu Bello University where he received an LL.B. degree in Islamic law in 1980. He furthered his education by obtaining both an LL.M. degree in 1985 and a Ph.D. in law in 1998 from the same institution.

Professional Career Path

The late jurist began his career after being called to the bar in 1981. His professional journey included several key appointments. He started as a Magistrate Grade II in 1982, rose to Chief Magistrate of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory from 1989 to 1991, and served as a Judge at the Bauchi State Sharia Court of Appeal from 1991 to 1993.

He was appointed Justice of the Nigerian Court of Appeal in 1993, a position he held for thirteen years before his elevation to the Supreme Court of Nigeria in 2006, where he was sworn in on January 7, 2007.

Appointment as Chief Justice of Nigeria

On July 11, 2019, Justice Tanko was nominated by President Muhammadu Buhari as substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria, barely 24 hours after the National Judicial Council recommended him to the president.

He became Nigeria's 17th Chief Justice following the controversial suspension of his predecessor, Justice Walter Onnoghen, in January 2019. During his tenure, he worked to strengthen Nigeria's judicial system and uphold the rule of law.

Resignation and Health Challenges

Justice Tanko resigned from office on June 27, 2022, citing health grounds as the reason for his decision, which came nearly three and a half years before his scheduled retirement at age 70 on December 31, 2023.

His resignation came amid controversy. Reports emerged alleging corruption and misappropriation of funds, though he maintained that health issues were the primary reason for stepping down. Following his resignation, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola was sworn in as acting Chief Justice of Nigeria.

Condolences Pour in for Former CJN

The Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students extended heartfelt condolences to his family, the Nigerian judiciary, the government, and the entire Muslim community. The association offered prayers for Allah to forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, and grant him the highest place in paradise.

Governor Mohammed stated that Justice Tanko exemplified the qualities of a patriotic Nigerian whose life was committed to the service of justice and the advancement of the nation.

The Bauchi State government and people have joined Nigerians nationwide in mourning the loss of one of their most distinguished sons.