The Imo State Government has on Thursday reviewed the decisions reached by the National Judicial Council at its 108th meeting, particularly the Council’s position on the appointment of an Acting Chief Judge for the state.
In a release signed by Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation and Strategy, Declan Emelumba, it stated, “Senator Hope Uzodimma made the appointment of Hon. Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu as Acting Chief Judge based on credible reports available to him at the time, which indicated that Justice Nzeukwu was the most senior judicial officer not encumbered by unresolved issues.
“This position, along with the supporting circumstances, was duly communicated to the NJC.
“The Government respects the wisdom of NJC in the discharge of its statutory duties and recognises the advisory constitutional role of the body in judicial appointments. Consequently, the government acknowledges and accepts the Council’s latest position on the matter.
“While the appointment was made in good faith and within the bounds of the law, the Government of Imo State will, in line with its longstanding respect for due process and the judiciary, comply with the NJC’s recommendation.
“Accordingly, steps are being taken to implement the decision of the National Judicial Council.”
The National Judicial Council yesterday declared the appointment of Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu as acting Chief Judge of Imo State void, directing Uzodinma to immediately reverse the decision and appoint the most senior judicial officer in the state in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution.
The decision was part of the resolutions taken at the NJC’s 108th meeting held on April 29 and 30, 2025, under the chairmanship of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.
In a statement released by the Council’s Deputy Director of Information, Kemi Ogedengbe Babalola, the NJC “directed the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma to appoint the most senior judicial officer in the state High Court’s hierarchy as the acting Chief Judge of the state in conformity with Section 271 (4) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).”
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