Index to Nigerian Newspapers

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has voided the appointment of Justice Theophilus Nzeukwu as Acting Chief Judge of Imo State, directing Governor Hope Uzodinma to reverse the decision and appoint the most senior judicial officer in accordance with Section 271(4) of the 1999 Constitution. The resolution was reached during the NJC’s 108th meeting chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun. Justice Nzeukwu and Justice V. U. Okorie, who recommended him, were both asked to explain within seven days why disciplinary action should not follow. In wider disciplinary actions, the NJC suspended three judges, including Justice Jane Inyang of the Court of Appeal, for one year without pay for misconduct and breach of judicial ethics. Justices Inyang Ekwo and Aminu Baffa Aliyu were also suspended for judicial improprieties. The Council dismissed several petitions, empanelled committees to investigate 27 judges, and resolved to make future judicial appointments more transparent by inviting public comments on nominees. It also approved one voluntary retirement and a name change for a state High Court judge.