Abuja: The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, has called on Nigerians to emulate the selflessness and integrity of the late Justice Muhammadu Uwais in order to advance national development. Fagbemi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, made this plea during a special prayer session held in Abuja, organized by the Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society (AIS) in honor of the late jurist.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Fagbemi commended the late Uwais for living a life of honor and distinction, emphasizing that his legacy would continue to inspire future generations. He noted that Uwais was a paragon of integrity, hard work, self-restraint, and respect for others, regardless of their age or status. Fagbemi highlighted that Uwais did not use his position for personal gain, as evidenced by the absence of any anti-graft investigations against him after his tenure.
Haruna Uwais, the eldest son of the late jurist, expressed gratitude for his father's impactful life and urged Nigerians to continue praying for the family and the nation. He hoped to uphold the values instilled by his father and preserve his enduring legacy.
The National Chief Imam of AIS, Imam Fuad Adeyemi, delivered a lecture titled 'The Essence of Life,' where he described Uwais as a detribalized Nigerian who used his position to uplift humanity. Adeyemi shared that Uwais's support was instrumental in the growth of AIS and emphasized the importance of maintaining the high standards associated with Uwais's name.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the special prayer session was attended by an array of dignitaries including legal luminaries, Islamic scholars, judges, politicians, and members of civil society. Justice Muhammadu Uwais, who served as the Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 to 2006, passed away on June 6. His contributions continued after retirement, notably through his leadership of the Electoral Reform Committee, appointed by the late President Umaru Yar'Adua, where he played a crucial role in enhancing Nigeria's electoral system.