The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Owerri Branch, has strongly opposed the appointment of Hon. Justice T. N. Nzeukwu as the Acting Chief Judge of Imo State, calling on Governor Hope Uzodimma to reverse the decision.

In a press statement issued by Chief Chris U. Ihentuge (Chairman) and Daniel O. Odiba, ACArb. (Secretary), the association expressed deep concern over the appointment, emphasizing that Justice Nzeukwu is not the most senior judge in the Imo State High Court.

The NBA Owerri noted that Section 271(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) mandates the appointment of the most senior judge as Acting Chief Judge in the event of a vacancy. It argued that bypassing three more senior judges without a valid explanation is a violation of constitutional provisions.

“If there exists any impediment preventing the senior judges from assuming the role, such an impediment, if valid, should not only disqualify them from the position of Acting Chief Judge but also from sitting as judicial officers at all,” the statement read.

The association insisted that due process must be followed, warning that any deviation undermines public confidence in the judiciary.

The NBA Owerri further stated that while it has no personal interest in who holds the office of Chief Judge, it remains committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting the integrity of the legal system.

It called on the Governor to take immediate steps to rectify the situation and pledged to escalate the matter if necessary. The statement confirmed that the press release would be formally communicated to key stakeholders, including:

  • The Imo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice
  • The Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN), Imo State Chapter
  • The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) of Imo State
  • The President of the Nigerian Bar Association
  • The National Judicial Council (NJC)

The NBA Owerri emphasized that failure to address the concerns raised would further erode public trust in the judiciary at a time when confidence in Nigeria’s institutions is already fragile.

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