NJC Distances Self From Uzodinma’s Appointment Of Ag. Chief Judge

The National Judicial Council NJC, has refused to accord recognition to the acting Chief Judge of Imo state, Justice Theophilus Nnamdi Nzeukwu

Justice Nzeukwu was sworn-in in acting capacity by Governor Hope Uzodimma on Thursday.

But the NJC says the action did not get its approval according to a statement signed by its deputy director of information, Kemi Ogedengbe.

The Nigerian Constitution vests the power of appointment of a chief judge of a state on the governor, subject to the recommendation of the National Judicial Council and confirmation by the House of Assembly.

Traditionally, the most senior and qualified judge is appointed either in acting or substantive capacity.

In the case of Imo state, the NJC said Justice Nzeukwu was not only junior in the judicial hierarchy in the Imo State High Court, but also that his appointment was yet to receive the council’s approval

The NJC acknowledged that the Governor of Imo state had written to it stating why the judges senior to Justice Nzeukwu were not fit to be appointed and requesting approval to appoint Justice Nzeukwu

But the Council maintained that the said letter had yet to be considered, and approval not yet granted as it had been fixed as an agenda at its next meeting scheduled to hold on 29th and 30th April, 2025.

The NJC in its statement said “it is not a party to the process of the purported appointment of Hon. Justice Theophilus Nnamdi Nzeukwu as the Acting Chief Judge”.

The position of chief judge of Imo state has been vacant since November 2024 when the National Judicial Council recommended the then chief judge. Justice Chukwuemeka Chikeka, for compulsory retirement for falsification of his age.

Editor Paul Akhagbemhe