NBA Urges Imo Governor To Appoint Chief Judge, Lands Commissioner
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Imo State Chapter, has called on Governor Hope Uzodimma to prioritize the appointment of a Chief Judge and a Commissioner for Lands to enhance governance and facilitate access to justice and land administration.
Speaking during the governor’s phone-in program commemorating the first anniversary of his second term, NBA Chairman Chris Ihentuge emphasized the importance of these appointments.
“The appointment of a Commissioner for Lands will simplify access to land-related issues in the state,” Ihentuge stated. He also urged the governor to expedite the appointment of a Chief Judge to ensure effective judicial administration.
In response, Governor Uzodimma explained that the appointment of a Chief Judge is awaiting appropriate communication from the National Judicial Council (NJC).
“I am waiting for the appropriate communication from the NJC. We need to first constitute a Judicial Service Commission. Careful consideration is required when appointing a Chief Judge,” Uzodimma said, adding that the removal of the previous Chief Judge was under unique circumstances unrelated to retirement.
Regarding the Ministry of Lands, the governor revealed that he is personally overseeing its operations due to reported issues of racketeering.
“We are computerizing the ministry, and everyone claiming land ownership must undergo recertification. How can one person hold 50 Certificates of Occupancy? This malpractice must stop,” Uzodimma stated.
The governor also addressed labor demands for the payment of the minimum wage, confirming that implementation will begin in January with an appropriate structural template.
Uzodimma commended President Bola Tinubu’s decision to remove the fuel subsidy, attributing the state’s increased revenue and ongoing infrastructure development to the policy.
“Our revenue has increased by 50%. With the work I am doing, history will remember me positively after I leave office,” the governor concluded.
