The Imo State government under His Excellency Hope Uzodinma has heeded to the implementation of the NJC recommendation on the appointment of the acting Chief Judge of the State with immediate effect, 9News Nigeria reports.
This decision came as a follow up reactions and petitions against the recent appointment of Imo State Chief Judge Hon. Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu, few weeks ago by the state government.
On this therefore, the Imo State Government has reviewed the decisions reached by the National Judicial Council (NJC) at its 108th meeting, particularly the Council’s position on the appointment of an Acting Chief Hon. Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu for the State.
His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodinma, CON, Governor of Imo State, made the appointment 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.
This position, along with the supporting circumstances, was duly communicated to the NJC according to the Chief press secretary to Imo State government, Declan Emelumba.
The 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. Consequently, the government acknowledges and accepts the Council’s latest position on the matter.
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.
Accordingly, steps are being taken to implement the decision of the National Judicial Council. However the position of the Acting Chief Judge of Imo state will be applied accordingly and appropriate measures be followed as NJC has earlier demanded.
-Princely Onyenwe reporting
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