After 43 years of the death of His Royal Highness Igwe Spencer Ugwuoke, the Enyiduru 1 of Obimo, the community in Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State, has resolved to elect a new Igwe. The decision was made during a town hall meeting organized by the Obimo Town Union, where representatives from the community’s four quarters—Agbor, Akutara, Akpotoro, and Ikwoka—gathered to discuss the way forward.
The President General of the Obimo Town Union, Mr. Sunday Ezike, stressed the urgency of electing a new traditional ruler, highlighting that the responsibilities of the union leader differ from those of the Igwe. He pointed out that the absence of an Igwe puts the community at a disadvantage, as chieftaincy matters and town union affairs are handled by separate government departments.
Various opinions were shared regarding the election process. Comrade Samson Ugwuoke of Agbor Quarter proposed formally notifying the Ministry of Chieftaincy Matters about the vacancy, a suggestion that received support from Hon. Malachy Onyechi, a representative in the Enugu State Assembly, and Professor Osodu Eze from Akutara Quarter.
Chief Patrick Ugwu of Akpotoro Quarter, however, cautioned against using zoning or rotational formulas for electing the new Igwe, arguing that the process should be open to all qualified candidates. He also suggested that the newly elected Igwe should draft a constitution within three months to reflect the interests of all quarters. High Chief Titus Dike from Ikwoka Quarter supported this view.
In honor of the late Igwe Spencer Ugwuoke, a moment of silence was led by Prof. Ogbonna Sam Onyeisi, a senior Enugu Government official and member of the late Igwe’s cabinet. He called for divine guidance as the community moves forward in the election process.
The meeting concluded with a resolution to officially notify the Ministry of Chieftaincy Matters about the vacant Igwe position and seek guidance on the next steps. Community members were praised for their unity and commitment to the process.
