The High Court of Enugu State has delivered a decisive judgment upholding the authority of the Enugu State Government to dissolve town union executives and install caretaker committees whenever required to maintain peace and ensure community progress.
The ruling, handed down on September 30, 2025, by Hon. Justice C. A. Ogbuabor (PhD.) in SUIT NO: E/508M/2025, vacated an earlier order that had granted 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 initiated by members of the dissolved Obeagu-Ugwuaji Development Union executive.
The plaintiffs; Mr. Chukwunonso Obi Freedom, Obi Ekene, Ani Cyril and Egbo Romanus had resisted their removal despite the expiration of their tenure in July 2025 and their official dissolution on May 26, 2025.
Court documents revealed that following their removal, the former executives engaged in disruptive actions, including intimidation, threats, and destruction of government property, drawing widespread concern from stakeholders in the community.
In his judgment, Justice Ogbuabor ruled that the Caretaker Committee headed by Hon. Okuwudili Joseph was properly constituted and empowered to manage the affairs of Obeagu-Ugwuaji.
The court further clarified that the Commissioner acted within the scope of his powers under Section 26 of the Fund for Rural Development Law of Enugu State, which empowers him to dissolve union executives and appoint caretaker committees when necessary for peace and development.
Reacting to the verdict, the traditional ruler of Obeagu-Ugwuaji, HRH Igwe Christopher Nyia, expressed gratitude, calling the judgment a milestone for justice and harmony in the community.
“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.
The Chairman of the validated Caretaker Committee, Hon. Okuwudili Joseph, welcomed the court’s decision, stressing its significance for the community.
“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 also extended a conciliatory hand to those dissatisfied with the judgment.
“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 practitioners have since described the ruling as a landmark development.
They argued that it not only reinforces the Enugu State Government’s constitutional role in maintaining order at the grassroots but also serves as a deterrent to community leaders who defy lawful authority.
According to them, the judgment sends a clear message that governance at the local level must be conducted in accordance with law and respect for peace and order.
