Justice T. N. Nzeukwu Faces Compulsory Retirement — NJC Faults Self-Nomination As Acting Chief Judge Of Imo

*Reaffirms Directive To Governor Hope Uzodinma Over Imo CJ Vacancy
The National Judicial Council (NJC) has reiterated its directive to the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma, to immediately swear in the most senior judge in the Imo State judiciary as the Acting Chief Judge.
This reaffirmation came during the NJC’s 109th meeting held on June 25, 2025, and was chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat M. O. Kekere-Ekun, GCON.
The NJC’s resolution followed investigations into the controversial appointment of Hon. Justice T. N. Nzeukwu as acting Chief Judge, despite being fourth in the hierarchy of judges in the state. The Council found that Justice Nzeukwu made himself available for the appointment in clear violation of Section 271(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which mandates the appointment of the most senior judge in such circumstances.
While Justice Nzeukwu was recommended for compulsory retirement for breaching constitutional procedure, the NJC, however, absolved the President of the Imo State Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice V. U. Okorie, of wrongdoing. It noted that Justice Okorie dissented on record against the controversial nomination of Justice Nzeukwu.
The NJC emphasized that its earlier position on judicial succession in Imo State must be respected and enforced, stressing that the continued refusal to install the most senior judicial officer undermines the independence and integrity of the judiciary.
The Council’s renewed stance comes amid ongoing controversies within the Imo State judiciary, including findings of age falsification by nine judges—five from the High Court and four from the Customary Court of Appeal—who were subsequently recommended for compulsory retirement.
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