Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Uwais Is Dead

Former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Mohammed Uwais has reportedly passed away.

Born on June 12, 1936, the distinguished judge was set to celebrate his 90th birthday next year.

As of the time of this report, details surrounding his death remain unclear; however, a family member indicated that he died in Abuja.

In a tribute, the Attorney-General of Ondo State, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, remarked that the late judge led an extraordinary life.

The tribute reads: “It is with profound sorrow that I mourn the passing of Chief Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais, GCON, who has departed this world today. As I contemplate his significant impact on my life as a lawyer and the lives of countless Nigerians, I am filled with deep appreciation for his enduring legacy.

“My first appearance in any court was at the Supreme Court, under the esteemed leadership of Justice Uwais. His dignified presence commanded respect, and his steadfast commitment to justice inspired not only the legal community but all citizens who sought fairness.

“Justice Uwais was instrumental in our journey of democratic development and nation-building, serving not only as a jurist but as a visionary reformist of our electoral process. His leadership as Chairman of the Electoral Reform Committee, alongside esteemed members such as Bishop Mathew Kukah and Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, OON, SAN, exemplified his remarkable wisdom. The recommendations he presented not only established new standards but also instilled in our system a profound understanding of law and the responsibilities it entails.

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“Among his most significant contributions was the call for the establishment of an independent electoral commission, a vital measure designed to enhance the integrity and transparency of Nigeria’s electoral process. Furthermore, his committee championed the integration of technology in elections, advocating for electronic voting and the transmission of results—initiatives aimed at reducing fraud and fostering public confidence in our electoral system. The reforms also underscored the critical need for voter education and equitable political party financing, ensuring that elections became more accessible and just for all.

“The lasting impact of these recommendations continues to shape our electoral policies and informs the ongoing discourse on improving democratic practices in Nigeria.

“Justice Uwais was a true beacon of integrity, guiding the judiciary with grace and wisdom. His tenure as Chief Justice from 1995 to 2006 fundamentally transformed the landscape of our legal system, laying a foundation that continues to resonate today. Beyond the courtroom, he dedicated himself to the advancement of Nigeria’s electoral process, revealing a profound passion for democracy and good governance.”

Following his retirement from the Supreme Court, Uwais led a panel focused on electoral reform, which presented a report on 11 December 2008.

This report included recommendations for the establishment of commissions to address Electoral Offences, Constituency Delimitation, and the Registration and Regulation of Political Parties.

A portion of the authority currently held by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the State Independent Electoral Commissions would be delegated to these new commissions.

The committee advocated for proportional representation in elections for both the Federal and State legislatures, as well as for local government councils.

Additionally, the report suggested that the head of the Independent National Electoral Commission should be appointed by the judiciary instead of the President. However, this recommendation was dismissed by President Umaru Yar’Adua.