In an effort to provide further clarity and reassurance to the people of Owerri West, the Executive Chairman of Owerri West Local Government Area, Honorable Victor Osigwe (Ikeoha), has issued an updated directive regarding the dissolution of Town Unions. The latest press release, amid growing public concern, aims to address misconceptions about the scope of the dissolution and its impact on local governance.
The Chairman emphasized that the dissolution of Town Unions is not a blanket action affecting all communities in the region. Instead, it applies explicitly to communities where elections for Town Union leadership have not been adequately conducted. This move ensures that only legitimate, democratically elected leadership structures are in place.
“The dissolution is not all-encompassing. It affects only those Town Unions where leadership positions are held by appointed or caretaker executives, as well as communities embroiled in disputes,” Hon. Osigwe stated. “For clarity, any community with legally elected Town Union executives will continue to operate without needing another election.”
The Chairman clarified that town unions that have properly conducted elections remain intact. Presidents-General of these unaffected communities are expected to continue their leadership roles without disruption.
To further support a smooth transition, the Owerri West Local Government Authority is taking urgent steps to conduct free and fair elections in communities affected by the dissolution. This effort, Osigwe noted, will help restore order, improve governance, and prevent disputes that often arise from undemocratic appointments.
Hon. Osigwe stated that a key reason behind this strategic move is to strengthen governance structures in response to rising security concerns in Owerri West. He highlighted that the decision to dissolve certain Town Unions is a proactive measure to curb insecurity and kidnapping, which have become a growing challenge in the region.
“Security remains one of our top priorities,” he said. “By ensuring that all Town Unions have democratically elected leaders accountable to their people, we are creating a more structured governance system that can collaborate with law enforcement agencies in tackling security threats.”
The initial announcement of the Town Unions’ dissolution sparked mixed reactions across Owerri West. Some community leaders and residents expressed concerns about the possible destabilization of grassroots leadership. Many feared that dissolving all Town Unions would create a leadership vacuum that could hinder development projects and slow down community-driven initiatives.
The Chairman’s latest statement, however, seeks to dispel these fears. By confirming that only Town Unions without properly conducted elections are affected, Osigwe reassured residents that stability and progress remain the priority of his administration.
Going forward, the Owerri West Local Government Authority has committed to ensuring that Town Union elections are conducted fairly and transparently. Communities affected by the dissolution will soon receive official communication regarding election timelines and processes.
Hon. Osigwe urged all community members to remain patient and cooperate with the authorities to ensure a smooth and peaceful transition. He reiterated that these changes aim not to disrupt community governance but to strengthen it for the benefit of all residents.
As Owerri West embarks on restructuring its Town Unions, the Chairman calls on residents to take an active role in shaping their community leadership.
“The people are the foundation of any democratic system. It is essential that citizens participate in the upcoming elections and hold their leaders accountable,” Hon. Osigwe stated.
He encouraged community members to use legal avenues to voice their concerns, remain engaged in governance discussions, and contribute to the collective growth and development of Owerri West.
The revised directive from Chairman Victor Osigwe brings much-needed clarity to the Town Unions’ dissolution in Owerri West. The administration aims to foster a more accountable and effective governance system by ensuring that only caretaker-led or disputed Town Unions are affected while exempting those with legally elected executives.
With plans underway for fair elections in affected communities, the people of Owerri West are encouraged to stay informed, participate in the electoral process, and support efforts toward improved local governance and security.
As the situation unfolds, residents can expect continued updates on the progress of Town Union elections and broader governance initiatives within the Local Government Area.
