The Anambra State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs has conducted no fewer than 48 elections covering Igweship and President-General positions across various communities during the Christmas period.
Chief Tony-Collins Nwabunwanne, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, led his team to oversee the elections despite the festive season, demonstrating what observers have described as uncommon dedication to public service.
Communities where elections were conducted include Awka (President-General), Amawbia (Igwe), Enugwu-Agidi (President-General), Ndikelionwu (President-General), and Ndiowu (Igwe), among others. Several more elections are already scheduled for January 2026 and beyond.
The Enugwu-Agidi President-General election was particularly notable, with thousands of community members participating in the exercise that extended into the early hours of the morning. The ministry ensured meticulous attention to due process throughout the voting.
Chief Jonas Okoye, a public affairs commentator, confirmed that the Commissioner and his staff were at work in the ministry on December 31st, when many public servants had retired to their villages for the festive season.
Anambra State is home to approximately 179 communities and countless villages, with leadership positions often keenly contested. Leadership disputes frequently result in prolonged litigation that stalls community development and fractures unity.
The Commissioner and his team have faced challenges including blackmail and threats from individuals dissatisfied with election outcomes. However, observers say the ministry remains committed to transparent leadership selection and due process.
Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo has consistently emphasized genuine public service commitment from his cabinet members, a principle the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs appears to have embraced in its operations.
The elections are part of broader efforts to establish sustainable peace, transparent leadership selection, and grassroots development across Anambra State.
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