SAGE Journals

Introduction Town unions in Imo State have traditionally served as pillars of grassroots governance, fostering development, unity, and community leadership. However, in recent times, opposition political parties have resorted to desperate moves to hijack these structures, especially in communities without recognized traditional rulers. This phenomenon is particularly evident in Ahiazu Mbaise LGA, where many communities lack substantive traditional rulers, creating a vacuum that politicians now seek to exploit. Their goal is not community development but to install political loyalists who will serve as their foot soldiers ahead of upcoming elections. This article highlights the implications of this dangerous trend, the legal framework governing town unions in Imo State, and why the government must urgently intervene to prevent a political takeover of grassroots governance. Case Study: The Manipulation of Town Unions in Ahiazu Mbaise 1. Absence of Recognized Traditional Rulers Many commu...

  By: DonWis   The role of Local Government Councilors is crucial in grassroots governance, as they are responsible for legislation, policy-making, and oversight within their constituencies. However, effective legislation requires adequate knowledge, capacity, and training—something that many newly elected or serving councilors may lack. A Call for Legislative Training We call on the Imo State Government, the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and all relevant authorities to prioritize structured legislative training for the current councilors across the 27 LGAs of the state. Training programs should be compulsory and continuous to ensure that councilors develop the necessary skills to deliver effective governance to the people at the grassroots. Why Legislative Training is Essential 1. Understanding Legislative Procedures Councilors need to understand how to draft, debate, and pass motions and by-laws that directly impact their local communities. Without pr...

Formation of the Umuihuocha Intermediate Committee (UIC) In adherence to the customs and developmental framework of Umuihuocha Autonomous Community, the Traditional Prime Minister (TPM), Chief Magnus Okoro , in collaboration with the Umuihuocha Development Union (UDU) , initiated the Umuihuocha Intermediate Committee (UIC) . This committee was envisioned as a neutral mediator to foster peace, resolve disputes, and uphold constitutional order within the community. However, concerns quickly emerged regarding the legitimacy of the committee’s formation , the selection of representatives, and potential manipulations surrounding the leadership succession process. Emerging Concerns Over the Legitimacy of the Committee What was initially perceived as a unifying step soon became a subject of controversy . High Chief Dandy Canice Orji and others who had submitted nominees for the committee discovered that the original list had been altered without consultation . Key concerns included: ...

 By: DonWis  Introduction Local government legislators, particularly ward councilors, play a critical role in grassroots governance. They serve as the bridge between the people and the government, shaping policies that directly impact communities. However, many councilors assume office without adequate knowledge of legislative procedures, governance frameworks, or policy-making. This knowledge gap can hinder effective representation and service delivery. To address this challenge, legislative training for local legislators should be a priority for every Local Government Area (LGA). A well-trained councilor is better equipped to advocate for constituents, develop meaningful policies, and contribute to democratic governance. Why Legislative Training is Essential 1. Enhancing Legislative Knowledge and Skills: Legislative processes are complex, requiring councilors to understand procedures such as drafting bills, motions, and resolutions. Training equips them with the knowledge of...

By: DonWis The recent suspensions of Hon. Samuel Otuibe (Ahiazu Mbaise) and Hon. Henry Agbasonu (Ezinihitte Mbaise) from the Imo State House of Assembly have left their respective constituencies facing a challenging time and in a state of uncertainty. The suspension, which was handed down due to an alleged impeachment plot against the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe, has left the constituency without a voice in the state assembly. This has significant implications for the people of Ahiazu Mbaise. Without their representative, they lack a crucial link to the state government, making it difficult for them to access basic amenities and services. The constituency's development projects, which were being championed by Hon. Otuibe, are now at risk of being abandoned or stalled. Similarly, the people of Ezinihitte Mbaise are also feeling the impact of Hon. Henry Agbasonu's suspension. As their representative, Hon. Agbasonu was instrumental in advocating for the constituency's inte...

Widows often face significant challenges, from economic hardship to social isolation. In many communities, losing a spouse can mean losing financial security, access to resources, and even social acceptance. However, widows associations are stepping up to change this narrative, providing support, empowerment, and opportunities for widows to rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose. The Importance of Widows Associations Widows associations play a vital role in supporting women who have lost their spouses. These organizations offer financial assistance, emotional support, skill development programs, and advocacy to ensure widows' rights are recognized and protected. Some of the key benefits include: 1. Emotional and Social Support : Losing a partner can be an isolating experience, but widows associations create a sense of community where members can share their experiences, find comfort, and build new friendships. Support groups and counseling services help widows cope with grief...

The unconstitutional Ezeship Screening/Electoral Committee , led by Barr. Mathew Unanka, has once again exposed its true agenda of manipulation, selfishness, and personal enrichment at the expense of our community. This same individual, whose track record is riddled with failed leadership and self-serving actions, has now positioned himself at the helm of another divisive plot.   A History of Deception and Exploitation Barr. Mathew Unanka has a troubling history of leading Umuihuocha into avoidable crises:   1. The First Ezeship Crisis    As a supposed advisor, Barr. Unanka deceptively led Umuihuocha into filing numerous baseless court cases during the first Ezeship crisis. Innocent personalities were wrongly accused and involved in these fruitless legal battles. His motives were clear—to enrich himself as the attorney handling the cases. The huge sums spent on these cases only deepened the financial and emotional burden on the community.   2. A D...