Nigeria has lost one of its finest legal minds and statesmen, Justice Muhammad Lawal Uwais (GCON), former Chief Justice of Nigeria, who passed away just days before his 89th birthday. His death marks the close of a golden era in Nigeria’s judiciary.

More than a jurist, Uwais was a guardian of judicial independence, standing firm during turbulent political times and military regimes. Appointed Chief Justice in 1995, he served until 2006—leaving behind a judicial legacy rooted in courage, integrity, and constitutional fidelity.

His greatest national service came after retirement, when he chaired the landmark Electoral Reform Committee in 2007, recommending transformative reforms like electronic voting, unbundling INEC, and the creation of an Electoral Offences Commission. Though not fully implemented, the Uwais Report remains a touchstone for credible elections in Nigeria.

President Bola Tinubu hailed him as a "compass of constitutional order", while the Nigerian Bar Association called him "a titan of justice". His legacy was not just in his rulings, but in his unshakable belief that the law must serve conscience, not power.

Known for his humility and quiet brilliance, Justice Uwais mentored many and remained active in public service post-retirement. His influence endures in courtrooms, classrooms, and policy circles alike.

As Nigeria seeks democratic progress, his life reminds us that justice must be principled, and reform must be bold. Justice Uwais stood for order amid chaos—and for law as the conscience of a nation.