The National Judicial Council (NJC) has suspended three judges and voided the appointment of Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu as acting Chief Judge of Imo State.
At its 108th meeting held on April 29 and 30, 2025, the NJC directed Governor Hope Uzodinma to reverse the appointment.
The NJC instructed the governor to appoint the most senior judge in the Imo State High Court in line with constitutional provisions.
The Council said the Constitution mandates that the most senior judge must be appointed when the position is vacant.
Justice Nzeukwu was asked to explain within seven days why disciplinary action should not be taken against him for accepting the role.
The NJC also directed Justice V. U. Okorie to show cause over his involvement in the appointment process.
Justice Okorie presided over the Judicial Service Commission meeting that recommended Justice Nzeukwu’s appointment.
In a broader disciplinary action, the NJC suspended three judges, including a sitting Justice of the Court of Appeal, for misconduct.
Justice Jane Inyang of the Court of Appeal, Uyo Division, was suspended for issuing inappropriate ex parte orders while at the Federal High Court.
Her orders authorised the sale of private property during a case’s interlocutory stage, violating judicial conduct rules.
Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, was also suspended for delivering rulings without hearing both parties.
He was placed on a five-year watchlist and barred from elevation during that period.
Justice Aminu Baffa Aliyu of the Federal High Court, Zamfara, was suspended for restraining security agencies without legal justification.
He was found to have ignored established legal precedents in a case involving the EFCC and Zamfara State.
The NJC also issued a caution to Justice A. O. Awogboro over a petition concerning a police-related case in Lagos.
Nine investigative committees were set up to probe 27 judges facing petitions over alleged misconduct.
The NJC dismissed 29 petitions for lack of merit and held others pending outcomes of related court cases.
It also rejected a petition against the 2022 judicial appointment in Zamfara State, citing false claims by the petitioner.
A petition challenging the 2021 appointment of six Federal High Court judges was also dismissed for being filed late.
The NJC announced plans to improve transparency in the appointment of judges by inviting public input on shortlisted candidates.
Names of candidates for judicial positions will now be published to allow public scrutiny of their integrity and competence.
The NJC accepted the voluntary retirement of Justice Babatunde Bakre and approved a name change for Justice I. A. Osayande.
With these steps, the NJC reiterated its commitment to strengthening discipline and accountability among judges in the Nigerian judiciary.
