After Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais, Nigeria’s former chief justice, died away on Friday at the age of 89, President Bola Tinubu paid tribute to him, calling him an exemplary jurist who showed great courage.
Uwais was a remarkable jurist who served his nation with distinction, according to Tinubu’s personal condolence statement. Tinubu regretted learning of the jurist’s death on Friday, the day Muslims celebrated Eid al-Adha.
Taking a trip down memory lane, Tinubu praised Justice Uwais’ distinguished tenure on the court, noting that he guided the judiciary through a difficult period in our nation’s history with grace, perseverance, and a strong sense of responsibility.
In his capacity as Chief Justice of Nigeria, he had the distinction of inaugurating the current democratic framework on 29 May 1999, when he swore in the elected president. He also mentioned that his calming position had a part in bringing about this change.
Tinubu noted that after Justice Uwais retired, the federal government appointed him to lead an investigation into the integrity of our voting process. His impeccable family history and high moral character made him the ideal candidate for that difficult task.
A critical report on the future of our voting system was produced by the team headed by Justice Uwais. Throughout his career and retirement, the late Justice Uwais upheld an air of dignity that garnered him admiration from far and wide, according to Tinubu’s statement expressing his sorrow over the jurist’s passing.