NJC Denies Approval of Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu’s Appointment as Acting Chief Judge of Imo State

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has distanced itself from the appointment of Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu as Acting Chief Judge of Imo State. In a recent statement, the NJC clarified that it did not approve the appointment, which was made by Governor Hope Uzodimma.

Nzeukwu, who is ranked fourth in the judicial hierarchy of the state, was chosen to assume the position following the compulsory retirement of the former Chief Judge, Chukwuemeka Chikeka, after being found guilty of age falsification.

The governor had previously submitted a request to the NJC seeking approval for Nzeukwu’s appointment, citing the unsuitability of three senior judges for the role. However, the NJC pointed out that it had not reviewed or approved the governor’s request, stressing that such appointments require its formal approval.

The NJC’s next meeting, scheduled for April 29-30, 2025, will include discussions on the matter. In the meantime, the Council has urged the public to take note that it had no involvement in Nzeukwu’s appointment, raising concerns about the legitimacy of the decision and the NJC’s role in the judicial appointment process.