Gov Otti speaks on unity among Nigerians, as he celebrates Obi of Onitsha at 85

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By Madu Obi

The governor of Abia State. Dr Alex Otti, has

stressed the need for unity among Nigerians, as he celebrates the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe during his 85th birthday.

Speaking during the celebration organized by the Abia State government at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia, Otti warned against divisive politics rooted in ethnicity and religion.

According to the governor, politicians often attempt to divide citizens by emphasizing ethnic and regional differences, insisting that Nigerians remain one people irrespective of background

“We are all one and the same people. When misguided politicians want to divide us, they begin to remind us that you are from here and the other person is from there.

We want our young people to know that it pays to be diligent because honour pays.

“This is a political period, but we are not bothered. We just do the right thing and keep doing the work we are doing for our people. We will not be distracted,” the governor stated.

Otti described the Obi of Onitsha as a selfless leader, a gentleman and symbol of integrity whose life of service continues to inspire generations across Nigeria and beyond.

According to him, the celebration was deliberately organized to teach the younger generation that hard work, honour and diligence still pay.

He disclosed that his administration is rebuilding the Ojukwu Bunker as part of efforts to preserve the state’s history and cultural heritage, assuring that he would remain focused on governance and economic development, despite political distractions.

Other prominent Nigerians, including Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe representing Abia South and former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, who spoke at the ceremony, commended Governor Otti, for honouring Igwe Achebe.

In his remarks, Senator Abaribe described the event as an opportunity to celebrate a legend, noting that Governor Otti recogizes and honours excellence.

Former Minister of Education, Dr. Ezekwesili, described the Monarch as an institution and an exceptional personality whose influence transcends traditional leadership.

She also commended Governor Otti for hosting the royal father, describing the event as proof that the Monarch is worthy of celebration.

Ezekwesili urged Abia people to continue supporting the governor to sustain the state’s transformational agenda.

Responding, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, recounted his relationship with Governor Otti, which, he said, dates back to their days at Diamond Bank, where he served as Chairman, while Otti was the Chief Executive Officer.

The Monarch described Otti as intelligent and hardworking and thanked him for fulfilling his promise to celebrate him.

He also called on Abia people to continue to support the governor, expressing confidence that Otti would take the state to greater heights.

"The achievements recorded by the administration within a short period were only the beginning of greater developments ahead for Abia people", Igwe Achebe said.

The event featured cutting of cake, photo sessions and goodwill messages.