GOV UZODINMA SWEARS IN ACTING IMO CJ, TWO COMMISSIONERS

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Along with two new commissioners, Prof. Bernard Ikegwuoha and Dr. (Mrs.) Chioma Egu, Justice Theophilus Nnamdi Nzeukwu was sworn in as Imo State’s acting chief judge by Governor Hope Uzodimma.

Months after Theresa Chikeka, the former Chief Justice, was dismissed by the National Judicial Council (NJC) due to an indictment for age falsification, the acting Chief Judge was sworn in.

The governor restated his administration’s commitment to upholding an accountable and trustworthy judiciary in Imo State during the swearing-in event and oath-taking at Government House in Owerri.

Referring to the controversy surrounding the dismissal of the former Chief Judge, the governor clarified that the state government and the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) conducted a joint review to confirm the records of all state-appointed judges and make sure they are above reproach.

He emphasized that the nomination of Justice Nzeukwu was made in compliance with the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s Constitution and came after a thorough assessment by the JSC. Additionally, he gave the JSC instructions to expedite the selection of a substantive Chief Judge for the state.

Governor Uzodimma advised all judicial officers to act honorably, with a fear of God, and with a dedication to justice and equity, urging them to view their mandate as sacrosanct.

He charged the new Acting Chief Judge with the responsibility of restoring dignity to the judiciary and prayed for divine guidance in his new role.

For the newly sworn-in Commissioners, Uzodimma encouraged them to add value to governance in Imo State and to work collaboratively for the good of the people.

In his acceptance speech, Justice Nzeukwu thanked the governor and the JSC for the confidence reposed in him. He pledged not to betray the trust and vowed to usher in a new era of credibility and accountability within the judiciary.

“The era of business as usual is over,” he declared. “We are determined to restore public confidence in the judiciary and make it truly the last hope of the common man.”

Justice Nzeukwu expressed optimism about the future of the judiciary in Imo State and called on judicial staff to remain patient, resist undue influence, and uphold professionalism.

Speaking on behalf of the new Commissioners, Prof. Bernard Ikegwuoha, a former Commissioner for Education, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve again.

He assured the governor that they would diligently work to justify their appointments and contribute meaningfully to the administration’s goals.