The High Court of Enugu State has delivered a landmark ruling affirming the authority of the Enugu State Government to dissolve town union executives and appoint caretaker committees in the interest of peace and community development.
In the judgment delivered on September 30, 2025, in SUIT NO: E/508M/2025 by Hon. Justice C. A. Ogbuabor (PhD.), the court set aside its earlier order granting leave for judicial review and prohibition against the Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Deacon Okey Ogbodo.
The case—Obi Chukwunonso Freedom & Ors. v. HRH Igwe Christopher Ikenga Nyia & Ors.—was instituted by members of the dissolved Obeagu-Ugwuaji Development Union executive, who contested their removal by the Commissioner. The plaintiffs, Mr. Chukwunonso Obi Freedom, Obi Ekene, Ani Cyril, and Egbo Romanus, had resisted their dissolution despite the expiration of their tenure in July 2025 and the official disbandment of their cabinet on May 26, 2025.
Despite their removal, the former executives allegedly engaged in threats, intimidation, and acts of sabotage—including the destruction of government property—sparking petitions and concern among community stakeholders.
In his ruling, Justice Ogbuabor held that the Caretaker Committee led by Hon. Okuwudili Joseph was validly constituted and lawfully empowered to pilot the affairs of the Obeagu-Ugwuaji Town Union.
The court further affirmed that the Commissioner acted within his statutory powers under Section 26 of the Fund for Rural Development Law of Enugu State, which authorizes the dissolution of town union executives and appointment of caretaker committees when necessary for peace and development.
The traditional ruler of Obeagu-Ugwuaji, HRH Igwe Christopher Nyia, welcomed the judgment as a triumph for peace and justice.
“Today’s judgment is not just a personal vindication—it is a victory for truth, for peace, and for the people of Obeagu Ugwuaji. We thank the Enugu State Government for standing firm in defense of justice and community development. Let this mark the beginning of healing and progress for our people,” he said.
Reacting to the court’s decision, the Chairman of the affirmed Caretaker Committee, Hon. Okuwudili Joseph, described it as a community-wide victory.
“This is a triumph of justice and law. I thank His Royal Highness, Igwe Christopher Ikenga Nyia, for his royal support, and the firm of Obra Legal for their industry and dexterity in seeing this through. This victory is not just for us—it is for the entire community, the Ministry for Local Government, Rural Development & Chieftaincy Affairs, and Enugu State at large,” he said.
Joseph extended a hand of reconciliation to those opposed to the decision.
“I urge those sympathetic to the dissolved executive to sheath their grievances and cooperate with the Caretaker Committee for the good of our community,” he appealed.
Legal experts have described the ruling as a precedent-setting decision that strengthens the hand of government in curbing impunity and restoring lawful governance at the grassroots.
They noted that the verdict not only validates the Enugu State Government’s intervention in Obeagu-Ugwuaji but also serves as a warning to community leaders who attempt to undermine state authority and disrupt peaceful development.
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