By Chinedu Adonu

The people of Ogugu Ntu-egbenese community in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State have elected Engr. Ben Udeh as their new President General to lead the community for the next few years.

The election, held at Ogugu Ntu-egbenese Community School field, Amanabo, saw delegates from town union branches across the globe in attendance. It was also monitored by the Enugu State Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development, and Chieftaincy Matters.

Announcing the election results, the Chairman of the Election Committee, Mr. Donatus Anioke, declared that Engr. Ben Udeh from Uhuokpo Village secured 153 votes, defeating his opponent, Mr. Livinus Aneke from Ugwuoma Village, who garnered just 2 votes. He affirmed that the election adhered strictly to the guidelines of the town union’s constitution.

The Enugu State Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development, and Chieftaincy Matters, Deacon Okey Ogbodo, represented by the Director for Town Union, Mrs. Queendaline Nonyerem Odike, commended the town union’s caretaker committee for organizing a smooth and transparent election. She urged the newly elected executives to operate within legal frameworks in carrying out their duties.

At the event, Dr. Augustine Okolie, former Director of the National Orientation Agency, Enugu State, praised the community’s unity in electing its leaders, noting that the peaceful process reflected the collective will of the people.

Gidim Dominic Ogbonna, one of the election organizers, also applauded the peaceful atmosphere, stating that it sets a new standard for democratic practices in the community and would inspire greater participation in future community decisions.

Caretaker Committee Chairman, Mr. Camilus C. Chukwueze, expressed joy over the smooth conduct of the election, adding that it marked the end of leadership disputes that plagued the community since last year. He expressed confidence in the capabilities of the newly elected leaders and urged them to collaborate with traditional institutions and various levels of government for the community’s progress.

He also acknowledged the Enugu State Government, led by Barr. Peter Ndubisi Mbah, for its support and development efforts within the community.

Newly Elected Leadership of Ogugu Progressives Union General Assembly (OPUGA):

Deputy President General 1: Mr. Igwe Pius

Deputy President General 2: Mr. George Ibe

Secretary General: Emma Anioke

Assistant General Secretary: Hon. Ugochukwu Udibe

Treasurer: Udeh Clement

Financial Secretary: Okafor Felix

Public Relations Officer: Okafor Gerald

Publicity Secretary: Engr. Nwoye Sunday

Provost 1: Udefi Celestine

Provost 2: Okolote Simon

Provost 3: Emeka Ogbonna

Director of Socials: Mr. Offor John