The National Judicial Council (NJC) has directed Imo Governor Hope Uzodinma to reverse his recent appointment of Justice Theophilus Nnamdi Nzeukwu as the Acting Chief Judge.

The NJC, at its 108th meeting held in Abuja between 29th and 30th April, also directed Uzodinma to appoint the most senior judge in the High Court’s hierarchy as the acting CJ in conformity with Section 271 (4) of the Constitution.

According to a statement by NJC’s spokeswoman, Kemi Babalola, the council was of the view that the constitutional provision on the appointment of an acting CJ of a state does not give room for discretion.

The NJC resolved that Justice Nzeukwu should be issued a query to show cause within seven days why disciplinary action should not be taken against him for presenting himself to be sworn in as the acting CJ of Imo State.

It also resolved that the President of the state’s Customary Court of Appeal, Justice V. U. Okorie, Imo State, who acted as Interim Chairman of Imo State Judicial Service Commission and recommended the appointment of Justice Nzeukwu should also show cause within seven days why disciplinary action should not be taken against him for his complicity in the recommendation.