Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais, who served as Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 to 2006, has died at 88. His family confirmed his passing on Friday, June 6, 2025, expressing deep gratitude to Allah. Funeral rites will follow Jumaat prayers at the National Mosque in Abuja, honoring Islamic tradition.
Born on June 12, 1936, in Zaria, Kaduna State, Justice Uwais had a long and respected career in law. Called to the Bar at Middle Temple, London, in 1963, he began as State Counsel in Northern Nigeria before his Supreme Court appointment in 1979. He later became Chief Justice, known for promoting judicial independence and legal reforms.
Even after retiring in 2006, Justice Uwais stayed active in national issues. In 2007, he led the Presidential Electoral Reform Committee, producing the influential Uwais Report, which pushed for an Independent Electoral Offences Commission and changes to improve electoral transparency.
Justice Uwais earned respect for his humility, sharp legal mind, and dedication to justice. He is survived by his wife, Maryam Uwais, a lawyer and human rights advocate involved in national social investment programs.
