Imo State has ushered in a new era of judicial leadership with the swearing-in of Justice Theophilus Nnamdi Nzeukwu as Acting Chief Judge, following the compulsory retirement of Justice Theresa Chikeka over an age falsification scandal. Governor Hope Uzodimma hailed the appointment as lawful and a call to uphold justice in the state.
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In a ceremony officiated by Governor Uzodimma, Justice Nzeukwu was sworn in as Acting Chief Judge of Imo State, filling a five-month vacancy in the state’s highest judicial office. This move follows the controversial exit of Justice Theresa Chikeka, who was forced into retirement in November 2024 after the National Judicial Council (NJC) recommended her removal for falsifying her birth date from October 27, 1956, to October 27, 1958—an act deemed a breach of judicial integrity.
Governor Uzodimma emphasized that the findings of the Judicial Service Commission and his subsequent appointment of Nzeukwu were in full compliance with the law. He urged judicial officers to view their roles as a “sacred mandate,” calling on them to prioritize justice and equity for Imo’s citizens. “I call on all our judicial officers to do only those things that will be acceptable to both God and man,” he said, framing the transition as a crucial step in restoring trust in the judiciary.
Justice Nzeukwu, in his acceptance speech, expressed gratitude to Governor Uzodimma for deeming him worthy of the role. “I want to reassure Your Excellency and the people of Imo State that I will not betray the confidence reposed in me, and I will deliver,” he pledged, as ceremonial music underscored the gravity of the occasion. His appointment, effective April 2, 2025, marks a fresh chapter following months of legal and political turbulence surrounding Chikeka’s tenure.
The downfall of Justice Chikeka began with allegations of age manipulation, highlighted by human rights lawyer Chidi Odinkalu on X in July 2024, when he claimed she had secured an interim injunction to block inquiries into her records. In October, an NJC panel, chaired by a retired appellate court judge, launched a probe that ultimately led to her compulsory retirement—a decision that stirred public and legal circles. This left Imo State without a Chief Judge until Nzeukwu’s elevation this week.
Governor Uzodimma also welcomed new commissioners into his cabinet during the event, urging them to provide “quality service” and thanking “the Almighty God for making today a reality.” The dual ceremony highlighted his focus on stabilizing both the judicial and executive branches of government amid ongoing scrutiny of his administration.
Born in Egwedu-Atta Autonomous Community, Njaba Local Government Area, Justice Nzeukwu’s legal journey began with his early education at Central School No. II Atta and Bishop Shanahan College, Orlu (B.S.C). He later attended Federal Government College, Kano, before earning his law degree from the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
After completing his studies at the Nigerian Law School, Victoria Island, Lagos, he served his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at the Ministry of Justice, Etina, Akwa Ibom State. He then joined the prestigious law firm A.B.C. Iketuonye & Co. (SAN Chambers), Owerri, where he honed his legal practice.
Justice Nzeukwu has served in various capacities within the Imo State Judiciary, steadily rising through the ranks:
- Chief Magistrate, Imo State Judiciary
- Deputy Chief Registrar, High Court of Owerri
- Chief Registrar, High Court of Justice, Owerri
- High Court Judge, Owerri
His leadership qualities were evident early, as he once served as Prep Prefect at Federal Government College, Kano.
Beyond his legal career, Justice Nzeukwu is a devout Catholic and a Knight of St. Mulumba (KSM), underscoring his deep moral and ethical values. A dedicated family man, he is happily married with two sons. His interests include discussing the Word of God, lawn tennis, and football, reflecting a well-rounded personality.
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