President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Lawal Uwais, who passed away on Friday at the age of 88.

In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the late jurist as a phenomenal legal mind and statesman who served Nigeria with unwavering honour, courage, and integrity.

“I join family members, friends, protégés, and all well-meaning Nigerians in mourning this respected patriot and statesman,” Tinubu said, noting that Justice Uwais’ passing coincides with the solemn celebration of Eid-al-Adha.

Tinubu paid tribute to Justice Uwais’ distinguished service, highlighting his critical role during a transitional period in Nigeria’s history.

“Justice Uwais superintended the judiciary at a challenging time with tact, patience, and a deep sense of duty. He played a stabilising role that helped usher in the current democratic dispensation and had the honour of swearing in the elected president on May 29, 1999. Even in retirement, the late jurist remained an influential national figure,” Tinubu noted.

Tinubu recalled the appointment of Uwais as chairman of a federal panel on electoral reform, a position he held with characteristic diligence and impartiality.

“He led the panel to produce a critical report with a detailed prognosis of our electoral system. His recommendations continue to influence Nigeria’s democratic reforms,” the President said.

Tinubu praised Uwais’ enduring dignity and respect across legal and public service circles, describing him as “a colossus who left behind a legacy of principled leadership.”

“May God Almighty accept his soul and grant him eternal rest in Jannatul Firdaus,” he prayed.

The President extended condolences to the Uwais family, the government and people of Kaduna State, and the entire Nigerian judiciary.