Mbaitoli Chairman Explains Cancellation of Obi-Mbieri Town Union Election, Assures Stakeholders of Peace Process
The Executive Chairman of Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State, Hon. Ifunanya Nwanegwo, has explained the circumstances surrounding the cancellation of the Obi-Mbieri Town Union election earlier scheduled to hold last Saturday.
Speaking with journalists, the Chairman stated that the election was halted following the lingering internal crisis within the community, which had heightened tensions and raised concerns about the possibility of further escalation if the exercise proceeded.
Nwanegwo disclosed that neither the Mbaitoli Local Government Council nor the Imo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs was formally notified or granted approval for the conduct of the election. According to him, the absence of the required official authorization made the proposed exercise procedurally irregular.
He noted that in view of the prevailing circumstances, allowing the election to proceed without the knowledge and approval of the relevant authorities could have worsened the already fragile situation in the community.
The Chairman emphasized that the decision to halt the election was taken in the interest of peace, stability, and proper administrative order within Obi-Mbieri.
He further revealed that the Local Government Council will soon constitute a reconciliation and fact-finding committee to engage critical stakeholders across the community. The committee, he said, will be tasked with interfacing with all parties involved, addressing underlying grievances, and fostering dialogue aimed at restoring unity and lasting peace.
According to Nwanegwo, only after the successful resolution of the disputes and the restoration of calm within the community will the process for conducting a fresh and credible town union election be initiated.
He reassured residents that the Local Government remains committed to promoting peaceful coexistence, responsible community leadership, and democratic processes that reflect the collective will of the people.
