Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has appointed Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu as the Acting Chief Judge, ending a five-month leadership gap in the state’s judiciary. The position became vacant after the National Judicial Council (NJC) ordered the immediate retirement of former Chief Judge, Justice Chukwuemeka Chikeka, over allegations of age falsification.
Uzodimma conducted the swearing-in ceremony at the Sam Mbakwe Executive Chambers, Douglas House, Owerri. Alongside Justice Nzeukwu, the governor also inaugurated two new commissioners: Prof. Bernard Thompson Ikegwuoha and Dr. Vivian Egu.
Legal Community Demanded Urgent Appointment
For months, lawyers in Imo State expressed concerns over the judiciary’s leadership vacuum. The absence of an Acting Chief Judge had stalled court operations, as there was no judicial head to assign cases and oversee the administration of justice.
Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu, who hails from Egwedu-Atta Autonomous Community in Njaba Local Government Area, brings extensive legal experience. His educational journey includes Central School No. II Atta, Bishop Shanahan College, Orlu, Federal Government College, Kano, and the University of Lagos (UNILAG), where he studied law.
After graduating from the Nigerian Law School, Victoria Island, Lagos, he completed his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at the Ministry of Justice, Etina, Akwa Ibom State, before joining A.B.C. Iketuonye & Co. (SAN Chambers), Owerri, to begin his legal practice.
Justice Nzeukwu’s Legal Career and Expectations
Before his appointment as Imo Acting Chief Judge, Nzeukwu held key judicial positions, including Chief Magistrate, Deputy Chief Registrar, Chief Registrar, and High Court Judge. With such an extensive background in judicial administration, he is expected to restore stability, efficiency, and integrity to Imo’s legal system.
Legal experts believe that his tenure as Imo’s Acting Chief Judge will strengthen judicial processes and uphold the rule of law in the state. His ability to navigate court operations efficiently will be closely monitored by legal professionals and the general public.
Why NJC Ordered the Removal of the Former Chief Judge
The NJC’s 107th meeting, held on November 13 and 14, 2024, led to the compulsory retirement of Justice Chukwuemeka Chikeka and the Grand Kadi of Yobe State, Kadi Babagana, both accused of age falsification.
With Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu now at the helm as Imo Acting Chief Judge, judicial stakeholders expect improved court governance and the efficient administration of justice in Imo State.
