By Sylvia Kodilichukwu, Enugu
Hon. Deacon Okey A. Ogbodo and Hon. Chief Charles O.C. Egumgbe have jointly clarified recent media reports surrounding Governor Peter Mbah’s appointment of Commissioners following the restructuring of the former Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Chieftaincy Affairs.
The clarification was made during a meeting with staff, aimed at dispelling misconceptions and ensuring institutional alignment.
The meeting followed public confusion arising from the announcement of new appointments on December 22, 2025, after the Ministry was split.
Addressing staff, both Commissioners explained that Deacon Ogbodo is the Commissioner for Local Government and Rural Development, while Chief Egumgbe is the Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs, a portfolio he previously held.
In his remarks, Deacon Ogbodo said the engagement was convened to formally brief staff on the latest developments in government structure, stressing that the Gov. Peter Mbah administration is continuously reforming to enhance efficiency and service delivery.
He noted that clear communication was essential to ensure smooth operations across the affected Ministries.
Recalling the administration’s early reforms, Deacon Ogbodo explained that upon assuming office in 2023, the government merged the Ministries of Local Government, Rural Development and Chieftaincy Matters to strengthen the interface between government and grassroots communities.
He said the merger helped streamline engagement and coordination across the state.
However, he added that the growing scale and complexity of community needs made it necessary to unbundle the Ministry.
According to him, the restructuring resulted in the creation of two distinct Ministries: the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, which he now oversees, and the Ministry of Chieftaincy Affairs, headed by Chief Egumgbe.
Deacon Ogbodo further directed that staff and records formerly domiciled under the Chieftaincy Affairs Department should immediately resume operations as a full-fledged Ministry, in line with the new administrative framework.
Chief Egumgbe, in his own address, described his reappointment as a call to service rather than a personal pursuit, noting that the Governor had entrusted him with responsibilities in a critical and expansive sector.
He emphasized that chieftaincy administration, by its nature, is broad and deeply connected to community identity, governance and harmony.
Egumgbe also addressed the initial confusion that trailed the announcement, attributing it to varied media interpretations.
He urged maturity and caution, stressing that while there was no rivalry or dichotomy, clarity of roles was essential for effective performance and accountability.
Outlining the core functions of the Ministry of Chieftaincy Affairs, Egumgbe listed policy formulation and implementation on chieftaincy matters, creation of autonomous communities, village integration, registration and development of chieftaincy constitutions, regulation and renewal of town unions, social clubs and community-based organizations, as well as policies governing traditional rulers and town unions.
He assured staff of collaborative leadership, expressing confidence that with collective support and divine guidance, the Ministries would successfully advance the Governor’s vision for Enugu State.
*PHOTO CAPTION: Both Commissioners at the briefing.
