Chairman of the Senate Committee on Livestock and Animal Husbandry, Senator Shehu Umar Buba (APC, Bauchi South), has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad.

In a statement, Senator Buba condoled with the family of the late jurist, the federal government, and the people of Bauchi State, describing his death as a significant loss to the nation and the judiciary.

The lawmaker, whose constituency overlaps with the late CJN’s area of origin, highlighted the enduring legacy of Justice Muhammad, praising his “hard work, honesty, and dedication” that continues to inspire the community.

Describing the late jurist as a champion of judicial independence and the rule of law, Senator Buba said, “His sharp intellect and compassionate nature earned him the respect of judges, lawyers, and citizens alike, and his contributions have left a lasting imprint on Nigeria’s legal landscape.”

He further extended condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the judiciary, and the immediate family, praying that Almighty Allah grants them the strength to endure the loss.

Justice Tanko Muhammad was called to the Bar in 1981 and served with distinction across various judicial capacities, including Judge of the Bauchi State Sharia Court of Appeal, Justice of the Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court Justice from 2006 to 2022. He held the position of Chief Justice of Nigeria from 2019 until his resignation in June 2022 due to ill health.

The former CJN passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, December 16, 2025, just weeks before his 72nd birthday, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and service in Nigeria’s judiciary.