The National Judicial Council (NJC) of Nigeria has rejected the exclusion of the acting chief judge of Imo State from the shortlist for substantive appointment to the position. This decision marks a significant development in a dispute that has persisted for two years between the judicial body and Imo State authorities regarding the filling of the chief judge post.
The conflict over the Imo chief judge position has been described as a major bone of contention, highlighting ongoing tensions between the NJC and state-level stakeholders. The council’s latest move affirms the inclusion of the current acting chief judge in the consideration process for the permanent role.
By opposing the removal of the acting chief judge from the candidate list, the NJC has signaled its stance on the procedural integrity of the appointment process. The council’s rejection of the exclusion effectively keeps the acting judge in contention for the substantive position.
This development underscores the prolonged nature of the standoff, which has spanned two years. The issue has remained a focal point of disagreement, with both parties engaged in a sustained effort to determine the appropriate candidate for the leadership role in Imo State’s judiciary.
<small>Source: Premium Times Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
