Gov Otti Urges National Unity as Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe Celebrates 85th Birthday in Umuahia
By Ezechukwu Adimoha
ABIA – The Governor, Dr. Alex Otti has
called for unity among Nigerians, warning that divisive politics based on tribal and religious sentiments is not the way forward.
Governor Otti who made the call 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, described the Obi of Onitsha, as a selfless leader, a gentleman and a man worthy of celebration.
While describing the life of Igwe Alfred Achebe as a life of service, wisdom and integrity, Governor Otti noted that the celebrant 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 are more rewarding.
Governor Otti further appreciated 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 equally described the celebrant as a mentor and trusted adviser, revealing that he often consults the Royal Father before taking major decisions, thanking God for preserving the monarch to celebrate his 85th birthday in good health and prayed for greater strength, wisdom and long life for him to continue impacting humanity.
Governor Otti who maintained that his administration remains focused on delivering good governance and economic development, maintaining that his administration has reversed the ugly narrative of underdevelopment and stigma.
Also speaking, the Senator representing Abia South Senatorial zone, Senator Enyinnaya Abairibe and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba described the occasion as an opportunity to celebrate a legend, noting that Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe has brought class and dignity to the traditional institution.
Contributing, the former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili congratulated the Obi of Onitsha, saying that the event marks his formal transformation as an institution describing him as an exceptional and professional personality.
Dr. Ezekwesili called on Ndi Abia not to take Governor Otti for granted but give him the needed support to sustain the transformational agenda of the State.
In their goodwill messages, the Chairman, Southeast Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Dr E.C Okeke, the representative of the Igwe in-council, Chief Dr. Okey Mike Areh and the Archbishop of Methodist Church Nigeria, Umuahia Archdiocese, Most Rev. Chibuzor Opoko, all congratulated Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe on his 85th birthday ceremony and described the celebration in Umuahia as unique and evidence of his wide acceptance.
Responding, the celebrant, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, while recalling his journey in life in and how he met Governor Otti, described the Governor as an intelligent and hardworking individual whose mandate is to transform all sectors of the state’s economy.
