The National Judicial Council (NJC) has directed Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma to immediately inaugurate the most senior judge in the state as the Acting Chief Judge, overruling his appointment of Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu. Nzeukwu was sanctioned for making himself available for the unlawful inauguration despite knowing he was fourth in the hierarchy of judges in Imo State Judiciary. This decision is part of the NJC’s effort to uphold constitutional provisions in the appointment of judicial officers.
The NJC has ordered Governor Uzodinma to swear in the most senior judge as the Acting Chief Judge, emphasizing the importance of following constitutional guidelines.
Justice T. N. Nzeukwu faces compulsory retirement for his role in the unlawful inauguration, while the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Imo State, Justice V. U. Okorie, was absolved due to his dissenting opinions.
Ten judges in Imo State were recommended for compulsory retirement for falsifying their ages to gain undue advantages, including extending their service period.
The affected judges include five High Court Judges (Justices M. E. Nwagboso, B. C. Iheka, K. A. Leaweanya, Okereke Chinyere Ngozi, and Innocent Chidi Ibeawuchi) and four Customary Court of Appeal Judges (Tennyson Nze, Ofoha Uchenna, Everyman Eleanya, and Rosemond Ibe).
The NJC and Governor Uzodinma have been at odds over the appointment of the Chief Judge for Imo State, with the NJC insisting on following constitutional provisions and the governor assuming the right to nominate and appoint. This latest directive from the NJC aims to resolve the judicial logjam created by the governor’s actions.
