President Bola Tinubu has described the death of Mohammed Uwais, former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Mohammed Uwais, as a great loss to the nation.
Tinubu, in a condolence message he personally signed, described Uwais, who died on Friday at 89, as “a phenomenal jurist and statesman who served Nigeria with honour, courage and exceptional integrity”.
The President joined the family members, friends, proteges and well-meaning Nigerians in mourning the respected patriot and statesman, who passed away today as we mark Eid-Al-Adha.
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The President recalled the remarkable hallmarked events in Justice Uwais’ illustrious career on the bench, adding that “He superintended the Judiciary at a challenging time in our history with tact, patience, and a sense of duty.
Tinubu said Uwais’ stabilising role helped usher in the current democratic dispensation, which he had the distinct honour of ushering in as the Chief Justice of Nigeria, who swore in the elected president on May 29, 1999.
“In retirement, the Federal Government called upon Justice Uwais to head a panel to investigate the conduct of our elections. Given his pedigree and personal integrity, he was the right person for that onerous assignment.
“Not surprisingly, Justice Uwais led the panel to produce a critical report that contained a detailed prognosis of our electoral system.
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“In active service and retirement, the late Justice Uwais maintained a dignified persona, earning him respect beyond his immediate constituency.”
The President prayed that God Almighty accept the soul of Justice Uwais and admit him to Jannatul Firdaus.
He also extended his heartfelt condolences to the Uwais family, the government and the people of Kaduna State, as well as the members of the Nigerian Judiciary, over the death of this colossus.
