A lawyer has approached the courts to compel Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State to appoint the most senior High Court judge as the state’s Chief Judge, in compliance with the directive of the National Judicial Council (NJC) and the Nigerian Constitution. This legal action follows persistent controversy over the appointment of Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu as acting Chief Judge, which the NJC declared void.
The NJC, in its 108th meeting held in April 2025 and chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, ordered Governor Uzodimma to reverse the appointment of Justice Nzeukwu and instead appoint the most senior judicial officer of the state in line with Section 271(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The council emphasized that the governor has no discretion in this matter and must strictly adhere to the constitutional provision when appointing an acting Chief Judge.
Governor Uzodimma initially swore in Justice Nzeukwu on April 4, 2025, following the removal of the former Chief Judge Theresa Chikeka due to allegations of age falsification. However, the NJC found procedural irregularities in the appointment, leading to its directive to reverse the decision.
The Imo State Government has since acknowledged the NJC’s position and promised to comply, with the Commissioner for Information, Declan Emelumba, affirming the state’s respect for the council’s statutory duties and advisory role in judicial appointments. Steps are reportedly underway to implement the NJC’s recommendation, including the appointment of the rightful senior judicial officer as Chief Judge.
The lawyer’s court action aims to reinforce the NJC’s directive and ensure the constitutional process is respected, promoting transparency and adherence to legal standards within Imo State’s judiciary.
This development marks a significant moment in upholding judicial independence and due process amid ongoing efforts to stabilize the state’s judiciary after recent controversies.