Imo State Reveals Next Step As NJC Declares Acting Chief Judge Appointment Invalid

The Imo State government has declared its intention to implement the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC) over the appointment of an acting Chief Judge.

According to a statement on Thursday by the Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation and Strategy, Declan Emelumba, Governor Hope Uzodinma has acknowledged and accepted the Council’s latest position on the matter.

Naija News recalls the NJC had earlier declared the appointment of Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu as Acting Chief Judge of Imo State null and void, directing Governor 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, which was part of the resolutions passed during 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, was based on the constitutional requirement for appointing an acting chief judge when the position is vacant.

In a statement issued by the NJC’s Deputy Director of Information, Kemi Ogedengbe Babalola, the Council instructed Imo State Governor Uzodinma to appoint the most senior judge of the High Court as the Acting Chief Judge.

Reacting to the position of the NJC, the Imo State government said Governor Uzodinma appointed Justice 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.

The statement added that the appointment was made in good faith, but based on the review by the NJC, steps are being taken to implement the recommendation of the council.

“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 statement read.