A heartfelt tribute to Justice Muhammad Lawan Uwais

Today, we mourn the passing of a remarkable Nigerian jurist, a beacon of justice, integrity, and humility Justice Muhammad Lawan Uwais, GCON. He served as the Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 to 2006, guiding the judiciary with wisdom, fairness, and huge dedication. At the age of 88, his departure leaves a void that words […]

Today, we mourn the passing of a remarkable Nigerian jurist, a beacon of justice, integrity, and humility Justice Muhammad Lawan Uwais, GCON. He served as the Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 to 2006, guiding the judiciary with wisdom, fairness, and huge dedication. At the age of 88, his departure leaves a void that words cannot fully fill. Yet, his legacy embodied in his exemplary service and noble character will forever illuminate the annals of Nigeria’s history.

Justice Uwais was not just a towering legal figure,he was a man of compassion and humility. His warmth extended beyond the courtroom into the lives of those fortunate enough to know him personally. His wife, Barr Maryam Muhammad Uwais a distinguished businesswoman, lawyer, and human rights advocate also played a vital role in shaping the inspiring Uwais legacy.

My personal journey with this noble family began in my formative years, during secondary school at FTC Yaba in Lagos. I vividly remember spending weekends at their Ikoyi home, a sanctuary of kindness, wisdom, and genuine care. Justice Uwais, a humble and approachable man, would often drive me to school on Sundays, creating memories that still resonate deeply within me. His gentle guidance and words of encouragement nurtured my aspirations and imbued me with hope.

I am immensely grateful to have known this extraordinary family through my elder sister, Justice Aisha RD Mohammed, a lifelong friend of theirs. Their huge support and kindness have left an indelible mark on my life, inspiring me to uphold integrity and humility in all my endeavours.

In 2011, when I was appointed Chairman of the Gombe State Sports Commission, I visited Justice Uwais to share the momentous news. His face lit up with joy, and he fondly recalled my days as a secondary school student an encouraging reminder of the journey I had undertaken. Later, upon my elevation to the position of Honorable Commissioner, I visited him again. With a warm smile and a joking tone, he said, “Sauran ka Gwamna” meaning “remain Governor for you” a testament to his  belief in my potential and his encouragement to aim higher.

Throughout the years, our relationship has been a source of strength and inspiration. The warmth, wisdom, and humility of the Uwais family have profoundly shaped my character. Their kindness extends beyond words, embodying the true spirit of service and compassion.

Today, I stand in grief and gratitude, mourning the loss of Baba Uwais. May Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate, expand his grave and illuminate it with His divine blessings. May his legacy continue to inspire justice, humility, and service across generations. To the entire Uwais family, I offer my deepest condolences may you find solace in the enduring memory of a truly noble man whose life was a testament to integrity, humility, and dedication to justice.

Rest in eternal peace, Baba Uwais. Your legacy is etched in our hearts forever.

 

Malam Farouk Yarma is a former Commissioner for Youth Empowerment in Gombe State [email protected]