December 22, (THEWILL) – Retired Supreme Court Justice, Uthman Argungu, died on Saturday night at the age of 90.
Justice Argungu served 12 years in the Supreme Court, from 1993 to 2005 when he retired.
Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, confirmed his passing in a condolence statement issued Sunday by Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy.
The President expressed deep sorrow over the death and described his passing as a significant loss to both the nation and himself personally.
He praised the late jurist as a paragon of integrity and dedication who devoted his life to the service of humanity and Nigeria.
“Justice Uthman Argungu was not just a towering figure in Nigeria’s judiciary but also a cherished associate and mentor. His legacy of unwavering commitment to justice and public service will forever remain a source of inspiration,” he said.
Justice Argungu’s distinguished career spanned decades, beginning as a teacher in the old Sokoto Province before he was called to the bar in 1965.
He rose to prominence in the judiciary, eventually being appointed to the Supreme Court in 1993.
His expertise and influence transcended national borders, as he also served as a visiting justice on the Supreme Court of the Gambia.
Tinubu recalled Justice Argungu’s selfless contributions to national development, noting his role in shaping the legal landscape of Nigeria.
“His immense contributions to the judiciary have left an indelible mark on the nation. We have lost a statesman of rare caliber,” the President stated.
In addition to offering prayers for the repose of Justice Argungu’s soul, Tinubu extended his condolences to the late jurist’s family, the government, and the people of Kebbi State.
He assured them of the nation’s solidarity during this period of mourning.
Meanwhile, the late jurist has been laid to rest on Sunday in his hometown, Argungu, by Islamic rites.
The funeral prayer was attended by senior officials of the Kebbi State Government, led by the Kebbi State Head of Service, Malami Muhammad Shekare, the Emir of Argungu, His Royal Highness Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammad Mera; APC National Organizing Secretary, Alhaji Sulaiman Muhammad Argungu among others.
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