A former Chairman of Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State, Pastor Sam Iyiogwe, has described the removal of local government chairmen after a single tenure as a disservice to grassroots governance, warning that such actions could destabilize ongoing development efforts.
Speaking in an exclusive interview while assessing the performance of council leaders across the state, Iyiogwe argued that replacing chairmen after just one term is comparable to removing a governor after only four years. He noted that new entrants often require time to settle and may struggle to sustain existing projects.
According to him, the current crop of local government chairmen—both those completing their tenure and those in their first term—have demonstrated commendable performance.
“In my assessment, they are doing well. If the governor is doing well, then the chairmen are also doing well. The governor is known to be a no-nonsense leader who does not tolerate incompetence, so those working with him must be committed,” he said.
He cited ongoing developments across Enugu State as evidence of effective grassroots leadership, adding that many of the chairmen have shown dedication and respect in their dealings with stakeholders, traditional rulers, and party members.
Iyiogwe particularly praised the Chairman of Nkanu East Local Government Area and ALGON Chairman, Sydney Okechukwu Edeh, describing him as a leader who has combined infrastructural development with inclusive leadership.
He also commended the Chairman of Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area, Engr. Michael Ogalla, for his hands-on approach to governance, noting that he frequently visits project sites, even at night, to ensure quality delivery.
“Such leaders should not be discarded because of a few criticisms. No matter how well a person performs, there will always be dissenting voices,” he added.
Other chairmen mentioned include the Chairman of Aninri Local Government Area, Prince Ugochukwu Nwanjoku, described as a young and dynamic leader, as well as Pastor Beloved-Dan Anike of Enugu East and Ibenaku Onoh of Enugu North, all of whom were said to be performing effectively.
While acknowledging that the governor has the constitutional authority to decide who remains in office, the former chairman cautioned against sweeping changes, especially at a time when political campaigns are approaching.
“These chairmen are the foot soldiers of the governor. Bringing in new people now could disrupt the momentum already built,” he noted.
He advised that underperforming chairmen should be cautioned and given the opportunity to improve, stressing that could as well be removed by the councillors if they fail to improve.
Iyiogwe further called for patience among political actors and aspirants, urging them to avoid actions that could lead to division within the system.
Quoting former Enugu State Governor, Barrister Sullivan Chime, he noted that shorter tenures ie two years for two terms were originally intended to give more people the opportunity to serve, but warned that ambition should not result in hostility or conflict.
He urged critics to desist from blackmail and undue attacks, emphasizing the need for unity and support for the current leadership at the local government level.
