The recently concluded town hall meeting between the incoming official, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, and Enugu State business owners based in Lagos took place amid growing concerns about developments in the state.
When Chief Nwakaibie visited Enugu on January 29, 2026, to arrange for the release of his mother’s remains, he reportedly encountered more than ten families who were present to collect the bodies of their loved ones for burial.
According to the account, the families were unable to proceed because they could not afford the required payment for the release of the bodies.
He reportedly paid the required fees on their behalf, enabling the families to proceed with burial arrangements.
The situation has prompted questions about when Enugu reached a point where bereaved families face financial challenges in retrieving the remains of their loved ones from mortuaries.
Burial remains a significant cultural and moral responsibility. When families in mourning are unable to meet the costs required to collect the bodies of deceased relatives, concerns arise regarding policy implementation and its human impact.
Revenue generation is an established function of government. However, public policies are also expected to reflect sensitivity to citizens’ circumstances.
Enugu State continues to face calls for leadership that combines administrative responsibility with consideration for the welfare of its residents.
