Obi Mbieri Palace Secretary Acknowledges Receipt of Government Directive on Illegal Village Creation

The Palace Secretary of Obi Mbieri Autonomous Community in Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State has formally acknowledged receipt of the directive issued by the Imo State Council of Traditional Institution and Community Policing concerning the cancellation of all newly created villages within the community.

The acknowledgement, dated June 18, 2026, comes days after the Council issued official correspondence declaring the creation of the villages null and void on the grounds that due process was not followed and that the action lacked the authorisation of the community's government-recognised traditional ruler, His Royal Highness Eze (Dr.). Josiah Osuji.

Sources within the community confirmed that the letter was duly received by the Palace Secretary on behalf of the Obi Mbieri traditional institution, effectively bringing the state government's position to the attention of the community leadership.

The directive from the Imo State Council of Traditional Institution and Community Policing had warned against any attempt to alter the traditional or administrative structure of Obi Mbieri Autonomous Community without following established legal and customary procedures.

The Council had further expressed concern that the unauthorised creation of villages could escalate existing tensions within the community and, if left unchecked, threaten peace and public order.

Government Position Remains Unchanged

With the acknowledgement of receipt now confirmed, stakeholders say the government's directive has been entered into the autonomous community's official records and is expected to guide subsequent actions regarding the disputed villages.

Community leaders and residents are urged to respect the directive and refrain from activities that could cause division or disrupt the area's peace, pending further guidance from relevant government authorities and the traditional institution.

Observers believe the acknowledgement represents an important administrative step in the government's effort to restore order and ensure that all matters relating to village creation, boundary adjustments, and community administration are handled in accordance with established laws and traditional protocols.

Call for Peace and Dialogue

Meanwhile, prominent stakeholders have urged residents to remain calm and avoid actions that could heighten tensions in the community.

They stressed the importance of dialogue, consultation, and adherence to lawful processes in resolving issues affecting the structure and governance of Obi Mbieri Autonomous Community.

The development is expected to strengthen ongoing efforts by the Imo State Government and traditional authorities to preserve peace, unity, and stability across communities in Mbaitoli Local Government Area and the state at large.