The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has expressed profound sorrow following the passing of former Chief Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais at the age of 89.
In a heartfelt condolence message on behalf of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, Governor Inuwa Yahaya praised Justice Uwais as a stalwart of legal integrity and a beacon for judicial reform. He highlighted Uwais’ remarkable career and his steadfast commitment to upholding the rule of law during his tenure as Chief Justice from 1995 to 2006.
“Justice Uwais’ passing marks the end of an illustrious era in Nigeria’s judicial history. He was a legal icon whose commitment to ethical leadership and judicial excellence will continue to inspire future generations,” Governor Inuwa stated.
After retiring from the Supreme Court, Justice Uwais was appointed by the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua to chair the Electoral Reform Committee. The committee’s 2008 report recommended extensive measures to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system—reforms that still resonate in the nation’s democratic framework today.
Governor Inuwa extended his deepest condolences to the Uwais family, the government, the judiciary, and the people of Kaduna State, urging national unity in mourning this monumental loss. He prayed for Almighty Allah to grant Justice Uwais Aljannat Firdaus and to comfort all those affected by his departure.
