Governor Hope Uzodimma has terminated the appointment of Imo State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister C.O.C Akaolisa, with immediate effect. The decision was announced on Monday, May 26, 2025, sending shockwaves through the state’s legal and political circles.
Akaolisa has been directed to hand over all government property and documents in his possession to the State Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice without delay. No official reason was stated in the government’s release, sparking intense speculation about possible internal rifts or political realignment within the administration.
Akaolisa, a key ally of Governor Uzodimma since his first term, played a significant role in several high-profile legal battles involving the state. His removal signals a potential shakeup in the legal leadership structure just months ahead of key legislative reforms promised by the Uzodimma administration.
Observers within the Imo political space believe the governor is recalibrating his cabinet to consolidate power and reposition his government for the next phase of governance. Some insiders hint that the dismissal may be tied to ongoing disagreements over legal interpretations and policy execution within the Justice Ministry.
This is not the first time Governor Uzodimma has made swift executive decisions. In 2023, he dismissed multiple commissioners ahead of his re-election campaign, citing a need for efficiency and loyalty. His recent mass appointments of 66 traditional rulers also highlight an aggressive governance style that mixes political strategy with swift administrative action.
Reactions on social media have been swift, with residents of Imo State divided over the governor’s decision. Some have praised the move as timely and necessary, while others demand more transparency on the circumstances surrounding Akaolisa’s sudden exit from office.
As the state awaits a new Attorney General, legal experts and stakeholders are calling on the governor to ensure that the replacement is competent, non-partisan, and able to navigate the sensitive legal issues confronting Imo State, especially in areas of land reform, public interest litigation, and judicial independence.
