The Executive Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has formally lifted the long-standing ban on Town Union Government Elections across all communities in the state.
The decision marks a major step toward revitalizing grassroots governance and restoring democratic leadership at the community level.
According to information made available to newsmen in Owerri, Governor Uzodimma, under the Imo Shared Prosperity Administration also known as the 3R’s, has directed the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, led by the Honourable Commissioner, Mrs Rubby Emele, to immediately commence all necessary preparations for the conduct of Town Union Elections.
The announcement was made during an important meeting held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Imo Council for Traditional Rulers’ Palace (Obi Ndi-Eze Imo), located on Mbari Street in Ikenegbu, Owerri.
Ouir correspondent, who attended the meeting, confirmed the Governor’s pronouncement.
Governor Uzodimma recalled that an official embargo had earlier been placed on the leadership activities of all Town Union Governments.
However, he explained that lifting the ban had become necessary in order to promote community development, restore accountability, and ensure leadership transitions that align with the constitutional provisions guiding each community under the Imo State Town Union Law.
The Governor further instructed the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to prepare clear modalities for the elections, which will replace both appointed President-Generals and those previously elected whose tenures have expired.
He stressed that all communities must strictly adhere to their respective Town Union Constitutions throughout the electoral process.
In addition, the Ministry of Rural Development and Economic Empowerment, along with Imo ALGON, has been mandated to collaborate with the parent ministry in supervising and supporting the exercise.
Governor Uzodimma charged them to ensure transparency, fairness, and the overall success of the assignment.
The Governor condemned the practice of Local Government Chairmen appointing President-Generals for autonomous communities, describing the action as improper and inconsistent with due process.
His remarks were informed by complaints raised by several traditional rulers during the meeting.
Consequently, all Town Union Elections that were reportedly conducted during the embargo have been declared null and void.
With this directive, communities across Imo State are now expected to begin preparations for credible Town Union Elections that will usher in legitimate leadership and strengthen participatory governance at the grassroots level.
