The Enugu State Government has called on President-Generals of town unions across the state to embrace inclusive leadership, transparency and accountability as essential tools for fostering peace, unity and sustainable community development.
The Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Chief Charles Egumgbe, made the call during the inauguration of the newly elected 14-member executive committee of the Amufie Town Union in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area.
The new executive, led by Engr. Kenneth Okechukwu Ogili as President-General, was presented with certificates of return at the ministry’s headquarters in Enugu.
Addressing the new leadership, Egumgbe stressed the importance of carrying every segment of the community along, particularly women and youths, in the decision-making process.
He advised the executives to avoid operating exclusive caucuses, insisting that town union affairs should be conducted transparently through regular meetings where decisions are collectively discussed and adopted.
“You must carry everybody along. Let your policies be all-inclusive and ensure that members are well informed about your activities. Matters should be tabled before the executive and decisions reached collectively,” he said.
The commissioner also warned against abuse of office, particularly in matters relating to community land, noting that officials found acting against the interests of their communities could be removed in line with the provisions of the Enugu State Town Union Law.
“I don’t know whether you will receive remuneration because this is service to humanity. But whatever you do, don’t sell community land illegally. Land has a way of fighting for itself,” he cautioned.
Responding on behalf of the newly inaugurated executive, President-General Engr. Kenneth Okechukwu Ogili pledged to provide transparent and responsible leadership while working closely with other executive members to promote peace, unity and development in Amufie.
He said his administration would prioritise security by strengthening the community’s neighbourhood watch and collaborating with relevant security agencies to tackle criminal activities in identified flashpoints.
Ogili also assured residents of a cordial working relationship with the traditional ruler of the community, stressing that both institutions would complement each other in advancing the community’s development.
“The Igwe is our father. We have different constitutional roles, and there will be no conflict between us. We shall work harmoniously for the peace and progress of Amufie,” he said.