Enugu govt tasks town union PGs on inclusive leadership

From Jude Chinedu, Enugu

The Enugu State Government has urged Presidents-General (PGs) of town unions across the state to embrace inclusive leadership that promotes peace, unity, and sustainable development in their communities.

The Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Chief Charles Egumgbe, gave the charge on Wednesday while inaugurating the newly elected 14-member executive committee of the Amufie Town Union in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area.

The executive committee, led by its President-General, Kenneth Ogili, was presented with certificates of return at the ministry’s headquarters in Enugu.

Egumgbe urged the new leadership to uphold transparency, accountability, and regular engagement with members, stressing the need to carry women and youths along in decision-making.

He advised the executives against operating exclusive caucuses, noting that town union affairs should be conducted openly through regular meetings where issues are deliberated upon and decisions taken collectively.

“You must carry everybody along. Let your leadership 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, stressing that anyone found working against the interest of the community could be removed under the Enugu State Town Union Law.

“I don’t know whether you will receive remuneration because this is a service to humanity. But whatever you do, don’t sell community land illegally. Land has a way of fighting for itself,” he cautioned.

Responding, the newly inaugurated President-General, Ogili, pledged to lead with transparency and work closely with members of the executive committee 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 security agencies to rid identified flashpoints of criminal elements.

Ogili also pledged to maintain a cordial working relationship with the traditional ruler of the community.

“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 pledged.