Hon. Justice Afojulu Raymond Ozoemena was appointed as the substantive Chief Judge of Enugu State on January 25, 2022, following his service as Acting Chief Judge for two consecutive three-month terms. His elevation came after the retirement of Hon. Justice Priscilla Ngozi Emehelu on September 7, 2021. Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi appointed him based on the order of seniority among the judges of the Enugu High Court, as confirmed by the National Judicial Council (NJC). His appointment was subsequently confirmed by the Enugu State House of Assembly, in accordance with Section 271(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
In his role as Chief Judge, Justice Ozoemena has been instrumental in promoting judicial reforms and enhancing the administration of justice in Enugu State. He chairs the Enugu State Judicial Service Commission, which was reconstituted in July 2024 under Governor Peter Mbah's administration. The commission includes key judicial and legal figures, such as the State Attorney General and the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, and is tasked with overseeing appointments, promotions, and disciplinary matters within the state's judiciary.
Justice Ozoemena has also fostered collaboration between the judiciary and the executive branch. In August 2023, he met with the Enugu State Attorney General, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, to discuss initiatives aimed at revolutionizing justice delivery in the state. Their discussions focused on expediting the dispensation of justice and implementing innovative approaches to improve the legal system.
Throughout his tenure, Justice Ozoemena has been recognized for his juristic erudition, diverse experience, and commitment to upholding the rule of law. His leadership continues to shape the Enugu State judiciary towards greater efficiency and integrity.
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