The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has urged Nigerians to adopt the values of selflessness, integrity, and humility exemplified by the late former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Muhammadu Uwais, in order to foster national progress and societal growth.
Fagbemi made this appeal on Thursday during a special prayer session held in honour of the late jurist by the Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society (AIS) in Abuja.
Justice Muhammadu Uwais passed away on June 6, 2025. Born on June 12, 1936, he served as the Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 until his retirement in 2006. After retiring from the bench, he was appointed by former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua to chair the Electoral Reform Committee, where he made significant contributions toward strengthening Nigeria’s electoral processes
Fagbemi praised Justice Uwais for leading a life marked by honour, discipline, and unwavering commitment to the principles of justice and fairness.
“Justice Uwais lived a life of deep fulfilment. His legacy is rich and enduring—rooted in integrity, hard work, humility, and respect for people regardless of age or status,” Fagbemi remarked. “He never abused his office for personal gain. He left public service with his reputation intact—no anti-corruption agency ever investigated him after his tenure. This is rare and worthy of emulation.”
The Minister also called on Nigerians, particularly the late Justice’s family, to uphold the values and legacy he left behind. “His life’s work still speaks volumes. May Almighty Allah forgive all his shortcomings, whether slight or significant,” he prayed.
Also speaking at the event, Haruna Uwais, the eldest son of the late jurist, expressed profound gratitude for the love and support shown to the family. He acknowledged his father’s impactful life and urged Nigerians to continue praying for both the family and the nation.
“We are grateful to Almighty Allah for the life Baba lived. We pray Allah grants him Al-Jannah Firdaus,” he said. “We also hope to carry on the principles he instilled in us and preserve his legacy with honour.”
In a lecture titled “The Essence of Life,” the National Chief Imam of AIS, Imam Fuad Adeyemi, described Justice Uwais as a detribalised and humane Nigerian who used his privileged position to uplift others and promote justice without bias.
“Justice Uwais was a man of great compassion and integrity. He was there for us when Al-Habibiyyah was not widely recognised. He believed in our vision and mission,” Imam Adeyemi recalled. “He didn’t just support us—he encouraged others to join in our cause. Today, people still associate us with his name, and that is why we must remain conscious of our actions.”
The event drew dignitaries from across different spheres of life, including legal professionals, Islamic scholars, politicians, judges, and members of civil society, all of whom came to honour the life and legacy of the revered jurist.