Chief Judge Position: Imo Govt To Comply With NJC Directive

The Imo State government has pledged to comply with the National Judicial Council‘s (NJC) directive to reverse Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu‘s appointment as the Acting Chief Judge.

The Imo State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Chief Declan Emelumba, disclosed in a statement in Owerri on Thursday evening.

Emelumba said the state government had reviewed the decisions of the 108th meeting concerning Justice Nzeukwu‘s appointment, respects the body‘s decision, and will comply with the directive.

Emelumba said, „The Imo State Government has reviewed the decisions reached by the National Judicial Council (NJC) at its 108th meeting, notably the Council’s position on the appointment of an Acting Chief Judge for the State.

„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 actually 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.

„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“, Emelumba stated.