NJC nullifies Imo acting CJ’s appointment, suspends three judges

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has ordered Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, to reverse the appointment of Theophilus Nzeukwu as acting chief judge of the state, declaring the process unconstitutional.

In April 2024, Uzodimma swore in Nzeukwu despite the NJC not approving the appointment.

The council, during its 108th meeting held April 29–30 in Abuja, directed that the most senior judge of the state’s high court be appointed instead, in accordance with Section 271(4) of the 1999 Constitution.

Nzeukwu has been given seven days to explain why disciplinary action should not be taken against him for accepting the appointment without NJC’s approval.

Similarly, V.U. Okorie, president of the Imo State Customary Court of Appeal, was asked to justify his recommendation of Nzeukwu while serving as interim chairman of the state’s Judicial Service Commission.

The NJC also announced the suspension of three judicial officers for misconduct:

Jane E. Inyang, justice of the Court of Appeal, suspended for one year without pay.

Inyang Ekwo, federal high court judge in Abuja, suspended for one year without pay, placed on a five-year watchlist, and barred from elevation.

Aminu Baffa Aliyu, of the Federal High Court, Zamfara Division, suspended for one year without pay, placed on a three-year watchlist, and barred from elevation.