The Imo State House of Assembly has reinstated the impeachment of Chief Judge Theresa Chikeka over alleged falsification of age. Elected members said Chikeka had altered her year of birth from October 27, 1956 to October 27, 1958, which is gross misconduct.
The chairman of the ad-hoc committee set up to investigate the claims, Ikenna Ihezue, said, “The effect of her actions is so terrible; that cannot go on unchecked.” Even invitations were extended, and Chief Judge Chikeka declined to be present before the committee, a situation the legislators say further tests the claims against her.
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Clinton Amadi, a member of the committee, said, “Her refusal to cooperate with the investigation only consolidates the evidence on the pretext of misconduct.”
Copies of the recommendations made by the Imo State House of Assembly, therefore, have been made available to the National Judicial Council (NJC) for consideration and further action.
Members of the Assembly express a belief in the good faith of the NJC over the matter.
“We are optimistic that the NJC will take the right step by ensuring this matter is dispensed,” said Bernard Ozoemenam, one of the members of the ad-hoc committee.
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Speaking with our correspondent, correspondent, Comrade Ndubuisi Onyemaechi, Director of Investigations for Civil Society Engagement Platform, affirmed that “falsification of age is a serious matter; several judges and justices have been removed from the office for doing the same.”
This underscores the concern over ethical standards and morality in the judiciary; there is, therefore, a need for the maintenance of openness and accountability in public office.