GOV UZODIMMA INAUGURATES ACTING CHIEF JUDGE AND ATTORNEY GENERAL OF IMO STATE; REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE.

By Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke
27- SEPT -2025

The Imo State Government has taken a significant step toward strengthening the rule of law and restoring public confidence in the judiciary, as Governor Hope Uzodimma formally inaugurated Hon. Justice Ijeoma Agugua as the Acting Chief Judge of the State and Barrister Paul Obinatu as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.

The swearing-in ceremony, held at Government House Owerri, was marked by a renewed sense of hope for judicial stability and institutional reform in the State.

Governor Uzodimma, while addressing dignitaries present, described the latest appointments as a turning point in the quest to reposition the judiciary for greater efficiency, transparency, and credibility.

He recalled the turbulence that had recently plagued the judicial system in Imo, describing it as an “unfortunate but instructive episode,” which, according to him, has now been laid to rest through lawful processes and the intervention of the National Judicial Council (NJC).

The Governor stressed that the endorsement of the appointments by the NJC underscored their legitimacy and symbolized a new dawn for judicial administration in Imo State. He expressed confidence in the professional abilities of Justice Agugua and Barrister Obinatu, urging them to bring integrity, fairness, and fidelity to the constitution in the execution of their mandates.

Governor Uzodimma further reiterated that his administration would continue to support the judiciary as a critical arm of government, noting that a functional and independent judicial system remains “the last hope of the common man.”

He assured the people of Imo State that his government will not relent in building strong institutions capable of upholding justice, promoting accountability, and advancing democratic governance.