Uzodimma Bows To NJC, To Sack Illegal Acting Chief Judge

Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma has bowed to pressure from the National Judicial Council (NJC) regarding the appointment of the State’s Chief Judge and has given orders for the acting CJ, Theophilus Nzeukwu to vacate his position.

This was contained in a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation, and Strategy, Declan Emelumba on Thursday.

Recall the governor had in April appointed Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu as the states Acting Chief Judge of the state after the former Chief Justice, Theresa Chikeka, was removed by the National Judicial Council for age falsification.

However, THE WHISTLER reported that NJC had directed the Imo State governor, Hope Uzodimma to reverse the appointment of Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu as acting Chief Judge citing breach of section 271(4) of the 1999 constitution (as amended).

Furthermore, Emelumba said that the governor appointed the Acting Chief Judge based on credible reports which indicated at the time that Justice Nzeukwu was the most senior officer devoid of issues.

He affirmed that the government respects the decision of NJC and will consequently comply with their position.

Emelumba said: “His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma, CON, Governor of Imo State, 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.”

Uzodimma Bows To NJC, To Sack Illegal Acting Chief Judge is first published on The Whistler Newspaper