Governor Hope Uzodinma has sworn in Hon. Justice Ijeoma Agugua as the new Acting Chief Judge of Imo State and Barr. Paul Obinatu as the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, marking a significant step in restoring the state’s judicial leadership.
The appointments follow the removal of Justice Theophilus, who was sacked weeks after his appointment due to irregularities in the selection process, which violated the hierarchical order. The absence of a substantive Chief Judge had left the state’s justice system without a head, creating a challenging period for the judiciary.
The swearing-in ceremony, held at the State Government House in Owerri, underscored Governor Uzodinma’s commitment to ensuring the functionality of all arms of government. He described the prolonged vacancy in the judiciary as “unfortunate but instructive,” emphasizing that his administration had navigated the crisis with diligence and maturity to restore the judiciary’s dignity.
“By the recommendation and ratification of the National Judicial Council (NJC), I have sworn in Hon. Justice Ijeoma Agugua as the Acting Chief Judge and Barrister Paul Obinatu as the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General,” Governor Uzodinma stated. He expressed confidence that the new appointees would uphold accountability, competence, and judicial independence, marking a new chapter for the state’s justice system.
The Governor further assured that his administration remains dedicated to promoting service delivery, the rule of law, and good governance across all arms of government. He urged the appointees to discharge their duties with professionalism, a deep sense of responsibility, and strict adherence to the constitution.
The appointments have been widely seen as a move to stabilize and strengthen Imo State’s judiciary, reinforcing the principles of justice and due process.
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