The NJC on Wednesday annulded the appointment of a representative judge in IMO state for violating the Nigerian Constitution.
The IMO state government has agreed to comply with the National Judicial Council (NJC) directives and says Theophilus Nzeukwu should reverse his appointment as the state’s representative chief judge.
The NJC on Wednesday negated the appointment of Nzeukwu for violating the Nigerian Constitution.
As a result, the council asked the governor to reverse Uzodimma’s appointment soon.
I asked Nzeukwu to show the cause within seven days.
The NJC made the decision at the 108th meeting held on Tuesday and Wednesday, according to a statement from Kemi Babalola, Deputy Information Director, Kemi Babalola.
The IMO government speaks
In a statement Thursday, IMO State Intelligence Commissioner Decan Emelumba said the state government has considered the NJC directive on the appointment of a representative chief judge.
Emelumba said the government respects the wisdom of the NJC in carrying out its legal duties and recognizes the body’s advisory constitutional role in judicial appointments.
“As a result, the government will acknowledge and accept the council’s latest position on the issue.
“The appointments were made in good faith and within the purview of the law, but the IMO government will comply with the NJC’s recommendations in line with years of respect for the due process and the judicial system,” he said.
“As a result, measures are being taken to implement the NJC decision.”
Why did we first appoint Nzeukwu?
However, Emerumba revealed that IMO governor Uzodimma had initially appointed Nzeukwu as Supreme Court judge “based on credible reports available to him at the time.”
The commissioner explained that the report showed that Nzeukwu was “the most senior judicial officer not disturbed by open issues.”
“This position was formally communicated to the NJC, along with the support situation,” he said.
