Former CJN Uwais dies at 89

By Paul Dada

Nigeria’s former Chief Justice,  Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais, has passed away at 89.

Uwais who was born on June 12, 1936, in Zaria, Kaduna State, served as Chief Justice from 1995 to 2006, and was renowned for his commitment to judicial reforms and independence of the judiciary.

In a terse statement, the family confirmed the passing of the eminent jurist.  The statement said, “Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihir Rajiun. It is with heavy heart, full of gratitude to Allah Subahanahu Wata’ala, the we announce the passing away of our father, Justice Muhammadu Lawal Uwais, former Chief Justice of the Federation.
Funeral arrangements are to be done immediately after Juma’at Mosque today at the National Mosque Abuja.”

Early Life and Career:

– Born on June 12, 1936, in Zaria, Kaduna State
– Called to the Bar at Middle Temple, London, in 1963
– Began his legal career as a State Counsel in the Northern Region of Nigeria
– Rose through the ranks to become a Justice of the Supreme Court in 1979

Notable Achievements:

– Judicial Reforms: Uwais championed judicial reforms and independence of the judiciary during his tenure as Chief Justice
– Electoral Reform Committee: Chaired the Electoral Reform Committee in 2007, producing the “Uwais Report,” which recommended significant changes to Nigeria’s electoral system
– Uwais Report Recommendations:
– Independent Electoral Offences Commission: Establishment of an independent commission to handle electoral offenses
– INEC Chairman Appointment Process: Reforms to the appointment process of the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)

Family and Legacy:

– His wife, Mrs. Maryam Uwais, is a lawyer who served in President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration as Special Adviser and Coordinator of the Social Investment Programmes
– Uwais’ legacy continues to inspire Nigerians, particularly in the legal and judicial communities.¹