Top Nigerian legal icon dies at 79
President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Prof. Kharisu Chukkol.
The father of Karim, the former Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s immediate past acting chairman was a renowned legal scholar and expert in criminal law
He passed away in Abuja on Sunday evening at the age of 79.
This was disclosed in a Monday statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
Describing the late professor as a “towering figure in Nigerian legal scholarship,” the President lauded his immense contributions to legal education and practice in Nigeria, particularly through his work at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
“A native of Mayo Belwa in Adamawa State, Professor Chukkol dedicated his professional life to teaching and advancing law at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
“He specialized in criminal law and held various positions at ABU, including Dean of the Faculty of Law and Director of the Institute of Administration,” the President stated.
Highlighting his influence on generations of legal practitioners, Tinubu noted that the late Chukkol’s students include sitting justices of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, senior advocates, and Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the current National Security Adviser.
He also praised Chukkol’s seminal 1988 book, Law of Crimes in Nigeria, which he described as “a cornerstone reference for legal practitioners and scholars.”
In addition to his academic legacy, Tinubu reflected on the professor’s influence through his family, particularly his son, Abdulkarim Chukkol, who served as the immediate past Acting Chairman of the EFCC.
Tinubu concluded his tribute with heartfelt prayers and words of comfort.
He wrote: “I urge the family, students, and all touched by Professor Chukkol’s life to find solace in his remarkable achievements and the enduring impact of his work. May Allah grant him eternal peace.”
