A legal advocacy group, Imo Lawyers for Good Governance, has thrown its weight behind the recent appointment of Hon. Justice T.N. Nzeukwu as the Acting Chief Judge of Imo State by Governor Hope Uzodimma.
In a communique issued on Saturday and signed by Barr. S.C. Nwobi (Chairman) and Barr. John Eboh (Secretary), the group described the appointment as both constitutional and timely, following the compulsory retirement of the former Chief Judge, Hon. Justice T. Chikeka.
Citing Section 271 (4) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), the group emphasized that the governor acted within his constitutional powers. The section empowers a state governor to appoint the most senior judge of the High Court as acting Chief Judge in the event of a vacancy or incapacity in the office.
“The Governor of Imo State acted strictly within the law in appointing Hon. Justice T.N. Nzeukwu. The constitution is clear on this matter. The appointment was based on the recommendation of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), and the appointee is the most senior eligible judge of the High Court,” the statement read.
The group condemned what it termed “unfounded criticisms” from certain quarters, describing them as motivated by personal interests rather than professional integrity or legal principles.
“It is unfortunate that some individuals, under the guise of protecting judicial interests, have resorted to spreading misinformation and challenging a legitimate appointment. These actions do not serve the interest of the judiciary or the state but rather expose ulterior motives,” the statement added.
The group particularly criticized the recent actions of the NBA Owerri Branch, accusing it of sending a petition to the National Judicial Council (NJC) and the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) without a general resolution from its members.
“We are not against anyone promoting the candidate of their choice, but it is unacceptable to do so under the collective identity of Imo State lawyers without proper consensus,” the statement said.
It noted that the other three branches of the NBA in Imo State have distanced themselves from the petition authored by Barr. Chris Ihentuge and his associates, labeling their actions as divisive and harmful to the state’s judiciary.
Signed by Barr. S.C. Nwobi (Chairman) and Barr. John Eboh (Secretary), the statement reaffirmed the group’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and supporting initiatives that promote good governance and judicial integrity in Imo State.
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