The Imo State government has promised to implement the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC) on the appointment of an Acting Chief Judge for the State.
The NJC had after its 108th meeting directed Governor Hope Uzodinma to reverse the appointment of the Acting Chief Judge of the state, Justice Theophilus Nnamdi Nzeukwu, and appoint the most senior judge as the Acting Chief Judge of the state.
In a statement on Thursday, the Imo State Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation, and Strategy, Declan Emelumba, said that the state 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.
According to him, Governor Uzodimma made the appointment of 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.
“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,” the statement said.
It added that “accordingly, steps are being taken to implement the decision of the National Judicial Council.”
