Why NJC sacked Imo Acting Chief Judge Nzeukwu

DDM NEWS

Gov Uzodinma and Justice Nzeukwu

The National Judicial Council (NJC) sacked Imo Acting Chief Judge, Justice T.N. Nzeukwu, due to his actions being contrary to Section 271(4) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Specifically, he allowed himself to be sworn in as Acting Chief Judge despite being fourth in the hierarchy of judges in Imo State Judiciary, which is a breach of the constitutional provisions .

Justice Nzeukwu’s swearing-in ceremony was deemed unconstitutional as he wasn’t the most senior judge in the state.

The NJC found that Justice Nzeukwu knowingly accepted an illegal appointment, violating judicial protocols.

The council maintained that Nzeukwu’s actions were contrary to Section 271(4) of the Constitution, which mandates the appointment of the most senior judge in such circumstances.

The NJC’s decision to compulsorily retire Justice Nzeukwu is part of a larger crackdown on judicial misconduct in Imo State.

Nine other judges were also sacked for falsifying their dates of birth to extend their tenure .

Justice Theophilus Nnamdi Nzeukwu is the Acting Chief Judge of Imo State, sworn in by Governor Hope Uzodinma on April 2, 2025.

However, his appointment has been deemed unconstitutional by the National Judicial Council (NJC) because he wasn’t the most senior judge in the state judiciary, ranking fourth in the hierarchy.

Justice Nzeukwu was sworn in as Acting Chief Judge on April 2, 2025, by Governor Hope Uzodinma.

The NJC faulted his appointment, citing Section 271(4) of the Constitution, which mandates the appointment of the most senior judge in such circumstances.

The position of Chief Judge became vacant after the compulsory retirement of Justice Theresa Chikeka for age falsification in November 2024.

The NJC has reiterated its directive to Governor Uzodinma to swear in the most senior judge as the Acting Chief Judge, emphasizing the need to respect the constitutional provisions .

Justice Nzeukwu has been recommended for compulsory retirement by the NJC for breaching constitutional procedure by allowing himself to be sworn in despite not being the most senior judge.

The NJC’s decision reflects its commitment to upholding the integrity and independence of the judiciary

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