“His legacy will forever remain a cornerstone of judicial excellence and inclusive justice” – Ikem Uchegbulam, Esq., National President of ALDIN
ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Association of Lawyers with Disabilities in Nigeria (ALDIN) has joined the nation and the broader legal community in mourning the death of its revered Board of Trustees Chairman, Justice Muhammad Lawal Uwais, GCON, whose demise marks the end of an era defined by judicial integrity, fearless reform, and passionate advocacy for disability inclusion.
In a solemn tribute issued on behalf of the Association, Ikem U. Uchegbulam, Esq., National President of ALDIN, described the late former Chief Justice of Nigeria as “a trailblazer whose life’s work elevated the pursuit of justice and gave voice to the marginalized, particularly lawyers and individuals with disabilities.”
“Justice Uwais was not only a towering legal figure; he was a compassionate leader and visionary who believed that justice must be accessible to all, regardless of disability. Under his guidance, ALDIN grew into a formidable advocate for lawyers with disabilities, giving us the confidence, structure, and support to challenge exclusion and champion inclusivity in the legal profession,” Uchegbulam stated.
A Life Anchored in Justice, Reform, and Service
Justice Muhammad Lawal Uwais, who served as Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 to 2006, is remembered for his unshakeable commitment to upholding judicial independence, fairness, and constitutionalism. His 11-year tenure at the helm of Nigeria’s apex court was marked by several landmark rulings that redefined legal precedents and deepened the interpretation of civil liberties.
Across Nigeria’s legal corridors, Uwais’s name resonates as a beacon of ethical jurisprudence and bold reform. He earned widespread acclaim for his efforts to professionalize the judiciary, strengthen ethical codes of conduct on the Bench, and resist undue political interference in court affairs.
Following his retirement from active judicial service, Justice Uwais continued to contribute to national development, most notably as Chairman of the Presidential Electoral Reform Committee in 2007. The committee’s far-reaching recommendations sparked pivotal conversations on electoral integrity, transparency, and citizen participation — issues still central to Nigeria’s democratic journey today.
A Champion for the Disability Community
While Justice Uwais’s accomplishments on the Bench are legendary, ALDIN emphasized his quieter but equally profound work in the disability rights space.
As Chairman of ALDIN’s Board of Trustees, Justice Uwais brought rare moral authority and credibility to the cause of inclusion within Nigeria’s legal system. His leadership helped shape the Association’s mission, mentoring young lawyers with disabilities and working to eliminate systemic barriers that hindered their professional advancement.
“He didn’t just lend his name to our Association — he rolled up his sleeves and helped build the foundation upon which we stand today,” said Justice Christopher, ALDIN’s Director of Media and Publicity. “He constantly reminded us that disability should never be a disqualifier in the pursuit of justice, and he lived those words in every meeting, every speech, every action.”
A National Loss, A Call to Action
As tributes pour in from across the country, ALDIN urged members of the legal profession and all Nigerians to honor Justice Uwais’s memory by continuing the work he so passionately championed: a justice system that leaves no one behind.
“We are heartbroken, but we are also deeply grateful for the years we had with him,” Uchegbulam added. “The best way to honor his legacy is to keep pushing for the changes he believed in — inclusive legal practice, stronger institutions, and a society where equality is not a slogan but a reality.”
Final Thoughts and Prayers
In this time of grief, ALDIN extended its heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Justice Uwais, praying for comfort, strength, and peace.
“Nigeria has lost a legal colossus, and we at ALDIN have lost a mentor, a father, and a champion,” the statement concluded. “But in our sorrow, we find strength in his legacy, and in his legacy, we find purpose.”
Justice Uwais’s passing leaves an indelible void, but his legacy — of fairness, fortitude, and fearless advocacy — will continue to inspire generations of lawyers, reformers, and rights defenders in Nigeria and beyond.
Signed:
Justice Christopher
Director of Media and Publicity
Association of Lawyers with Disabilities in Nigeria (ALDIN) National
