Four branches of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Imo State have thrown their weight behind Governor Hope Uzodimma’s decision to appoint Justice Theophilus Nnamdi Nzeukwu as Acting Chief Judge.
They took the decision yesterday after a meeting of the branches.
The lawyers’ position is contrary to the rejection of the governor’s decision by the National Judicial Council (NJC).
The NJC overruled the action, saying Justice Nzeukwu is not the most senior judge in the state.
The NBA branches in Orlu, Okigwe, Mbano/Etiti and Mbaise took the decision which was announced at the new conference by Prince B .O . Amukamara, (Chairman Orlu), I. I Iheonu, (Chairman Okigwe), Ndubuisi Uhuehbu, (Chairman Mbano/Etiti) and Chief Eze Ihekoronye, (Chairman Mbaise).
They said: “We hereby state categorically that the decision ( appointment of Justice Nzeukwu by Governor Uzodimma) is acceptable to the majority of the members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Imo State.”
They averred that Justice Nzeukwu who by records ,both statutorily and constitutionally,” is the most senior and qualified amongst the four most senior judges of the Imo State judiciary for appointment as the Acting Chief Judge “.
According to them, Governor Uzodimma was in order by “ lawfully and carefully performing his constitutional duty under Section 271(4) of the 1999 constitution as amended by appointing Hon Justice Nzeukwu as the Acting Chief Judge of the state “
They further declared “ the decision in appointing Justice Nzeukwu is well informed, legal and constitutional”.
They congratulated the new Acting Chief Judge, Hon Justice Nzeukwu for his appointment, saying it was merited as the most senior of the four senior justices in the state judiciary, and wished him God’s guidance and protection.
They also commended the governor for his courage and firmness in appointing the most senior of the judges as the Acting Chief Judge of the state.
