Otti tasks Nigerians on unity as Abia hosts Obi of Onitsha

From Okey Sampson, Umuahia

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has tasked Nigerians on the need for unity, warning against divisive politics based on tribal and religious inclinations.

Governor Otti gave the task in Umuahia  during the 85th birthday celebration of the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, organised by the Abia State Government at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia.

The governor described the Obi of Onitsha as a selfless leader, a gentleman, and a man worthy of celebration, saying that his life of service, wisdom, and integrity has continued to inspire generations across Nigeria and beyond.

Governor Otti noted that the celebration of the Obi of Onitsha was intended to send a strong message to younger generations that hard work, honour, and diligence still pay.

“We are all one and the same. You know, when misguided politicians want to divide us, they begin to remind us that ‘you are from here, the other person is from there’. We want our young people to know that it pays to be diligent. Honour pays,” Governor Otti stated.

He applauded the monarch’s contributions to Igboland, Nigeria, Africa, and the global community, praying that God would continue to bless him with good health and every resource required to sustain his service to humanity. The governor further described the royal father as a mentor, a father, and trusted adviser, revealing that he often consults him before taking major decisions.

Senator representing Abia South Senatorial zone, Enyinnaya Abairibe, described the occasion as an opportunity to celebrate a legend and noted that Governor Otti is one man that recognises excellence and people that have added value to the society.

He noted that Igwe Achebe has brought class and dignity to traditional institutions and thanked Governor Otti for celebrating the first class royal father and congratulated him.

Former Minister of Education, Dr. (Mrs) Oby Ezekwesili, saluted the Obi of Onitsha, saying that he has been transformed into an institution, and described him as an exceptional and professional personality.

The celebrant, Igwe Achebe, while recalling his life journey in the past 85 years, and how he met Governor Otti, and worked with him as the Chairman of Diamond Bank while Dr. Otti was Chief Executive Officer, described the governor as an intelligent and very hardworking individual. Igwe Achebe thanked Governor Otti for fulfilling his promise of celebrating him and called on Abians to sustain their support for him.