Governor Uzodimma
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has officially sworn in Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu as the acting Chief Judge of the state, ending a five-month judicial vacuum. This crucial appointment comes after the abrupt retirement of former Chief Judge, Justice Chukwuemeka Chikeka, due to age falsification, as recommended by the National Judicial Council (NJC).
In a formal ceremony held at the Sam Mbakwe Executive Chambers, Douglas House, Owerri, on Wednesday, Governor Uzodimma also inaugurated two new commissioners, Prof. Bernard Thompson Ikegwuoha and Dr. Vivian Egu—marking a significant development in the state’s governance and judicial structure.
A Long-Awaited Appointment for Imo’s Judicial System
Imo State had been without a Chief Judge since the NJC’s recommendation for the immediate retirement of Justice Chikeka, creating a leadership vacuum in the state’s judiciary. The absence of a Chief Judge had raised concerns among legal practitioners, who had called for swift action to restore direction, ensure case assignments, and provide leadership for the administration of justice in the state.
With the appointment of Justice Nzeukwu, the judiciary in Imo is expected to regain its stability and efficiency. Nzeukwu, a seasoned legal practitioner, brings a wealth of experience to the role. He hails from the Egwedu-Atta Autonomous Community in the Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State and is an alumnus of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), where he studied law.
Justice Nzeukwu’s Path to Acting Chief Judge
Before his appointment, Justice Nzeukwu had a distinguished career in Imo State’s judiciary. He served in various critical roles, including as Chief Magistrate, Deputy Chief Registrar of the High Court of Owerri, Chief Registrar of the High Court of Justice, Owerri, and most recently, as a High Court Judge. His extensive experience, particularly in both magistracy and high court adjudication, positions him well to lead the state’s judicial system during this transition.
His appointment is widely seen as a step towards bringing much-needed stability, integrity, and efficiency to Imo’s judiciary. Legal experts and practitioners in the state have expressed hope that Justice Nzeukwu will strengthen judicial processes and uphold the rule of law in the state.
The NJC’s Role in the Appointment
The NJC’s recommendation for Justice Nzeukwu’s appointment followed its 107th meeting, held on November 13-14, 2024, when it also recommended the compulsory retirement of Justice Chikeka and Kadi Babagana of Yobe State for falsification of age. With the issue of leadership in Imo’s judiciary now addressed, stakeholders are optimistic about the future direction of the state’s legal system.
As Imo State enters a new chapter in its judicial leadership, the appointment of Justice Nzeukwu is expected to bring clarity and renewed focus to the state’s judiciary, benefiting the people and strengthening the legal framework for justice delivery.
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